Chickenpox

Chickenpox, also known as varicella, is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It is most common in children but can affect people of any age who have not been vaccinated or previously infected. Chickenpox is characterized by an itchy skin rash with fluid-filled blisters and is usually mild in children, though it can be more severe in adults and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Symptoms

Symptoms of chickenpox typically appear 10 to 21 days after exposure to the virus and develop in stages.

Early symptoms may include:

• Fever

• Fatigue and general discomfort

• Headache

• Loss of appetite

As the illness progresses, symptoms include:

• Itchy red spots that develop into fluid-filled blisters

• Blisters that break open and form scabs

• Rash spreading over the face, scalp, trunk, and limbs

• New rash outbreaks appearing over several days

The rash may be present in different stages at the same time.

Causes

Chickenpox is caused by infection with the varicella-zoster virus. The virus spreads easily from person to person.

Common modes of transmission include:

• Direct contact with the rash or blister fluid

• Airborne spread through coughing or sneezing

• Contact with contaminated surfaces followed by touching the mouth or nose

Once infected, the virus remains dormant in the body and may reactivate later in life as shingles.

Risk Factors

Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing chickenpox or experiencing more severe illness.

Key risk factors include:

• Not being vaccinated against chickenpox

• No previous history of chickenpox infection

• Close contact with an infected person

• Weakened immune system

• Pregnancy

• Adults and adolescents, who tend to have more severe symptoms than children

Complications

While chickenpox is often mild, it can lead to serious complications, particularly in high-risk groups.

Possible complications include:

• Bacterial infections of the skin

• Pneumonia

• Encephalitis

• Dehydration

• Bleeding disorders

• Severe illness in newborns or pregnant individuals

Complications are more common in adults, infants, and people with compromised immune systems.

Prevention

Chickenpox can be effectively prevented through vaccination and basic infection control measures.

Preventive strategies include:

• Receiving the chickenpox vaccine as recommended

• Avoiding close contact with infected individuals

• Practicing good hand hygiene

• Keeping infected individuals isolated until all blisters have crusted over

Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent chickenpox and reduce the risk of complications.