Infections in pregnancyFree in the app
Chickenpox
UK advice changed in 2024: oral antivirals replace VZIG.
Source: UKHSA 2024 · NHS Scotland 2025AciclovirExposure, not immune800 mg four times a day for 7 days, starting day 7 after exposure (up to day 14).⚠ Or valaciclovir 1 g three times a day.
AciclovirChickenpox, from 20 weeks800 mg five times a day for 7 days if within 24 h of rash.⚠ Consider before 20 weeks.
Aciclovir IVPneumonia or severe10 mg/kg every 8 hours.⚠ Admit; involve ICU early.
Fetal varicella syndrome about 1% if infected before 20 weeks. Rash in the last 4 weeks: avoid planned birth for 7 days after rash onset if possible.
A summary for trained clinicians. Always check the full guideline, the patient in front of you and your hospital's protocol. Spotted an error? Tell us.