Chickenpox symptoms usually last about 1 to 2 weeks. The rash typically appears first and can last for 5 to 10 days, during which red spots form, dry out, crust over, and eventually fall off naturally. New spots can continue to appear for 3 to 5 days after the initial rash. The contagious period lasts from about 2 days before the rash appears until all the blisters have crusted over, which is generally about 5 to 7 days after the rash starts. Most people fully recover within this 1 to 2 week period, though some with weaker immune systems might take 2 to 3 weeks to heal fully.
Key points about chickenpox duration:
- Rash and blisters last 5 to 10 days.
- Contagious before rash onset and until blisters scab over.
- Full recovery usually within 1 to 2 weeks.
- Longer recovery (up to 3 weeks) possible for weak immune systems.
This duration covers the typical active phase of chickenpox from the initial rash appearance to healing.
