Chickenpox, RSV and scarlet fever: a parent's guide

Rashes, fevers and coughs are part of childhood. Most infections clear up on their own, but it can be hard to know what is harmless and what needs a doctor – especially if you are new to Norway and unsure how the health system works. Here we walk through three of the most common childhood illnesses – chickenpox, RSV and scarlet fever – and what parents in Drammen should look out for.

Chickenpox: the itchy rash

Chickenpox is one of the most common and most contagious childhood illnesses. It often starts with fever, tiredness and headache, followed by red spots on the body. The spots develop into itchy, fluid-filled blisters that eventually dry out and form scabs. According to Helsenorge, the scabs usually fall off within one to two weeks, and the illness resolves by itself.

The virus spreads both through the air (droplets) and by direct contact, and a child is contagious even before the rash appears. Norway's Institute of Public Health, the FHI, describes varicella as highly contagious – most people are infected during childhood.

The most important home care is easing the itching and preventing the child from scratching the blisters open, which can cause scarring or secondary skin infections. Ask your GP or pharmacy about anti-itch measures. Contact a doctor if the blisters become warm, swollen and weeping (a sign of bacterial infection), or if the child becomes unusually unwell.

RSV: the cold that can turn serious for the youngest

RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) is a respiratory virus that circulates every autumn and winter. For most children and adults it causes mild cold symptoms – a runny nose, cough and slight fever – lasting up to one or two weeks. But in the very youngest children, RSV can become more serious.

The FHI explains that infants have small airways, and that increased mucus production during infection can reduce oxygen uptake. Breathing difficulties can also make it hard for the child to take in enough fluids and food. This is why small children sometimes need monitoring in hospital.

There is no treatment aimed directly at the virus itself – the body clears it on its own. Symptom relief, such as keeping the nose clear and ensuring enough fluids, is usually all that is needed. Note that fever-reducing medicine for infants under three months should only be given after speaking with a doctor.

Scarlet fever: sore throat and a fine rash

Scarlet fever is caused by group A streptococcal bacteria – the same bacteria behind ordinary strep throat. It is most common in school-age children. Typical signs are a sore throat with inflamed tonsils, fever, and a fine, sandpaper-like rash that often starts on the body. The face usually flushes red, but with a characteristic pale area around the mouth. Many children also have headache, stomach ache or nausea, as described by the FHI.

Unlike chickenpox and RSV, scarlet fever is treated with antibiotics. The Norwegian Directorate of Health's guidelines recommend narrow-spectrum penicillin as first choice, usually for five days. That is why it is important to see your GP if you suspect it: the doctor can take a rapid throat test and assess whether antibiotics are appropriate. A child quickly becomes less contagious once treatment begins.

When should a child stay home?

A common uncertainty is how long a child needs to stay home from nursery or school. The FHI's advice on when a child should stay home gives clear pointers:

• Chickenpox: The child can return once all the blisters have dried into scabs.
• RSV and colds: The child can return once their general condition is good and they can take part in normal activities, regardless of a lingering runny nose or cough.
• Scarlet fever: The child can return once they have been on antibiotics for at least one full day and are feeling well.

The main rule is always the child's general condition: a child who is limp, has a high fever or does not have the energy to play belongs at home, whatever the diagnosis.

Reducing the spread of infection at home

Good hand hygiene is the simplest and most effective measure against most childhood illnesses. Wash hands often, cough and sneeze into your elbow, and avoid sharing water bottles and cutlery when someone in the family is ill. A vaccine against chickenpox is also available, which you can discuss with your GP. For an overview of the vaccines your child receives routinely, see our guide: The childhood vaccination programme 2026.

When should you contact a GP or the emergency service?

Most childhood illnesses can be safely managed at home, but some signs should always be assessed by a health professional. Get in touch if the child:

• breathes rapidly, with effort, or with the chest drawing in
• is unusually limp, hard to wake, or cannot take in fluids
• has a high fever that will not settle, or any fever in an infant under three months
• develops a rash with small skin bleeds that do not fade when you press on them
• seems to be getting worse rather than better after a few days

If you are unsure, it is always right to call. During the day, contact your GP; outside opening hours, call the emergency service (legevakt) on 116 117. For life-threatening symptoms – such as severe breathing difficulties or reduced consciousness – call 113. We have made a simple overview of who to call when: 113, 116 117 or your GP?

Does your family need a GP in Drammen?

Hotvet legesenter is located at Rosenkrantzgata 75, in the centre of Drammen. We welcome children and adults, and several of our doctors have room on their patient lists.

See available GP spots

This article provides general information and does not replace an individual assessment. If you are worried about your child, always speak with your doctor.