Written by - Chickenpox is a highly contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV).
- The virus spreads through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
- It can also spread through contact with the fluid from the blisters.
- The incubation period for chickenpox is 10 to 21 days.
- The first symptoms of chickenpox are usually fever, headache, and fatigue.
- A few days later, a rash appears, starting on the chest, back, and face, and then spreading to the rest of the body.
- The rash is made up of small, red bumps that turn into blisters.
- The blisters eventually break open and crust over.
- Chickenpox is usually a mild illness, but it can be serious in babies, young children, adults, and people with weakened immune systems.
- Complications of chickenpox can include pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and bacterial infections of the skin.
- There is no specific treatment for chickenpox, but there are medications that can help relieve the symptoms.
- The best way to prevent chickenpox is to get the chickenpox vaccine.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind about chickenpox:
- The chickenpox vaccine is safe and effective.
- It is recommended that all children get two doses of the vaccine, the first at 12-15 months of age and the second at 4-6 years of age.
- Adults who have never had chickenpox or who have not been vaccinated should also get the vaccine.
- If you think you or your child may have chickenpox, see a doctor right away.