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Incidence of Secondary Skin Infections in Children Affected with Chickenpox: A Prospective Observational Study

Shravya Shrinivas Rao1, Karthik Subrahmanya2

  • 1Department of Paediatrics, Siddaganga Medical College and Research Institute, Tumakuru, Karnataka, India.

Annals of African Medicine
|August 10, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Secondary bacterial skin infections are common in children with chickenpox, increasing illness and hospital stays. Poor hygiene and scratching are key risk factors, highlighting the need for early intervention and vaccination.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Dermatology

Background:

  • Chickenpox (varicella) is a common childhood illness.
  • Secondary bacterial skin infections are significant complications in children.
  • These infections increase morbidity and healthcare utilization.

Purpose of the Study:

  • Determine the incidence of secondary skin infections in children with chickenpox.
  • Identify risk factors associated with these infections.

Main Methods:

  • Descriptive observational study over one year.
  • Clinical evaluation for secondary skin infections.
  • Collection of demographic and clinical data.

Main Results:

  • A significant proportion of children developed secondary skin infections like impetigo, cellulitis, and abscesses.
  • Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes were the most common pathogens.
  • Poor hygiene, scratching, malnutrition, and delayed care were identified risk factors.

Conclusions:

  • Early recognition and management of secondary skin infections are crucial.
  • Preventive strategies, including health education and varicella vaccination, are vital.
  • Vaccination can minimize infection incidence and severity.
Abstract

Keywords:
ChickenpoxVaricelleagents pathogènesinfection viraleinfections secondairespathogenssecondary infectionsvaricellaviralvirus de la varicelle-zona

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