Overview
Chickenpox is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It primarily affects children but can occur at any age.
Symptoms
Early Signs
- Low-grade fever
- Fatigue and general malaise
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
Characteristic Rash
- Appears in waves over 3-5 days
- Progresses from red bumps to fluid-filled blisters
- Eventually forms scabs
- Typically starts on trunk and spreads outward
Transmission
- Airborne droplets
- Direct contact with blisters
- Contagious from 1-2 days before rash appears until all blisters have scabbed
Treatment
Home Care
- Rest and adequate hydration
- Calamine lotion for itching
- Oatmeal baths
- Acetaminophen for fever
Medical Treatment
- Antiviral medications (in high-risk cases)
- Prescription antihistamines if needed
Prevention
- Vaccination (recommended for all children)
- Two doses: typically at 12-15 months and 4-6 years
- Post-exposure vaccination can prevent or reduce severity
Complications
Rare but can include:
- Bacterial skin infections
- Pneumonia
- Encephalitis
- More severe in adults and immunocompromised individuals
When to Seek Medical Care
- High fever (>102°F/39°C)
- Severe headache
- Difficulty breathing
- Rash becomes very red, warm, or tender
Recovery
- Most cases resolve within 1-2 weeks
- Lifelong immunity typically develops
- Virus remains dormant and may reactivate as shingles later in life