MyChart
Chickenpox and Smallpox Rash Comparison
Source: The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
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Chickenpox |
Smallpox |
|
|---|---|---|
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How initial symptoms differ |
0 to 2 days of mild illness pass before the rash develops. |
2 to 3 days of severe illness pass before the rash develops. |
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Lesions first appear on the face or trunk. |
Lesions first appear in the throat or mouth, then on the face, or on the upper arms. |
|
|
How the rash lesions differ |
Lesions develop in successive fashion. While some are new, others are crusting over (in "crops"). |
Lesions develop at the same time, and they look alike on any one section of the body, such as the abdomen, arms, or face. |
|
Lesions change rapidly, crusting over within 24 hours. |
Lesions change slowly, scabbing over after 9 to 15 days. |
|
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Lesions sit on the skin surface and look like small blisters. |
Lesions become firm, dome-shaped, and deep in the skin. |
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Rash rarely develops on palms and soles. |
Rash commonly develops on palms of the hands and soles of the feet. |
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Lesions are most concentrated on the torso, with fewest on the hands and feet. Lesions can affect the face and scalp, but rarely affect the entire body equally. |
Lesions are most concentrated on the face, hands, and feet. |
Current as of: June 12, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
