Chickenpox (varicella) symptoms typically appear approximately 3 weeks after the varicella virus enters the body. The initial phase usually begins with flu-like symptoms such as a runny nose, headache, sore throat, fatigue, loss of appetite, and a mild fever. The fever can rise above 38 degrees Celsius when the rash emerges.
The most distinctive characteristic of the disease is the itchy, red, fluid-filled skin rash. These rashes usually start on the trunk and can spread to the face, scalp, armpits, upper arms, legs, and even inside the mouth. The rashes first appear as raised bumps (papules), transform into clear, fluid-filled blisters within 24-48 hours, and then begin to scab over. While the initial rashes are scabbing, new rashes can emerge for 5-7 days. The most intense rashes are observed during the first week.
Other common symptoms include swollen lymph nodes and abdominal pain, which can sometimes be severe.