Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Call emergency services for:
Trouble breathing, blue or grey lips, severe chest pain, or collapse
A seizure lasting several minutes or repeated seizures without recovery
Severe confusion, unusual unresponsiveness, or difficulty waking
A baby who is struggling to breathe or cannot safely swallow
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
If you are pregnant and have been exposed to chickenpox or shingles, contact your maternity service or healthcare professional promptly.
Do this even if you feel well, because preventive treatment is time-sensitive.
Call ahead before attending a clinic if you have a blistering rash so that other vulnerable people can be protected.
Seek prompt assessment during pregnancy for a new widespread blistering rash, fever, or worsening illness.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Routine follow-up is appropriate for slower changes, such as missed developmental milestones, worsening joint stiffness, feeding difficulties, possible vision problems, repeated constipation, or changes in urination.
Report these changes rather than waiting for the next scheduled review if they are affecting health or daily life.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Varicella embryopathy. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.