Wash hands often with soap and water
Keep nails short and encourage gentle skin care to reduce scratching
Use mild soap and lukewarm water for bathing
Keep the person hydrated with frequent small sips of water or oral rehydration solution
Offer cool, soft foods (yogurt, pudding, applesauce, smoothies) if mouth sores are present
Avoid acidic, salty, spicy, or rough-textured foods (citrus, tomato, chips, toast)
Avoid hot drinks and foods
Use over-the-counter pain relief as directed on the label:
Acetaminophen for pain or fever
Ibuprofen for pain or fever (if age-appropriate and no contraindications)
Consider topical oral pain relief for mouth sores if appropriate for age (follow label directions)
Use topical skin soothing agents as directed (for example, calamine or barrier ointments)
Avoid numbing gels that contain benzocaine for young children (follow local guidance)
Use a humidifier or cool mist if it helps with comfort
Wear loose, soft clothing to reduce friction on rashes
Launder bedding, towels, and clothing regularly
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces
Avoid sharing cups, utensils, towels, or toothbrushes
Limit close contact with others while contagious (especially during the first week)
Seek urgent medical care if any of the following occur:
Signs of dehydration (very little urine, dry mouth, no tears, extreme sleepiness)
Severe trouble swallowing, drooling, or inability to drink
Fever lasting more than 3 days or very high fever
Worsening rash, spreading redness, pus, or signs of skin infection
Breathing difficulty
Symptoms in a newborn or in an immunocompromised person
Contact a clinician promptly if the child is under 6 months, has significant medical conditions, or symptoms are not improving after several days