Chickenpox (Shingles) Treatment, Vaccination And Prevention

What is Chickenpox or Varicella?

Chickenpox, or Varicella, is a viral disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). The main symptoms of Chickenpox are fever, inflamed and blistered rash. It is a highly contagious disease, and infants and older people are more prone to it. Though it is not a life-threatening disease, it may be problematic for the kids and parents.

Causes of Chickenpox 

Varicella-zoster virus is responsible for causing chickenpox, wherein blistered rash and fever are shared among the patients. One of the main characteristics of the virus is that it remains dormant in the body for a more extended period and can be reactivated and cause shingles(herpes). It quickly spread from one person to another person within one or two days. 

Symptoms of Chickenpox

• Blistered
• Acute itchy rash
• Fever
• Chill
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Is chickenpox contagious?

Yes, Chickenpox is a contagious disease. Its contagiousness continues before the rash and till it becomes dry.

How can you contract Chickenpox?

• Since a virus causes the disease, it quickly spreads from one person to another by air droplets when the infected person coughs or sneezes in the nearby area.
• Direct contact also caused its expansion.
• If the pregnant mother has Chickenpox, there is a possibility that the newborn may also suffer from it.

Who is the most susceptible to the Chickenpox virus?

• Young children
• An adult who hasn’t been contacted by this disease earlier may face this infection later.
• Teachers, doctors, nurse, and who is spending time with kids suffering from Chickenpox

Complications of Chickenpox

• Skin lesion
• Lungs infection
• Pneumonia
• Brain complications like infections and swelling (encephalitis)

Chickenpox Prevention

• The infected person should be kept in an isolated place to reduce the transmission of the virus.
• Vaccination is one of the best treatments to check chickenpox.

Chickenpox Vaccination

• Chickenpox can be a significant health threat.
• So, proactive measures like vaccination in children would be most effective.
• Vaccination of children, susceptible adults, and adolescents can reduce chickenpox’s disease burden and transmission.
• Vaccination can be offered to individuals over one year of age who have not previously suffered from chickenpox.

How many days will chickenpox last?

For those who are not having the chickenpox vaccine, there is a chance of getting the disease. Chickenpox generally lasts about 4 to 7 days. The most crucial symptom of chickenpox is the eruption of rashes that turns into itchy, fluid-filled blisters that eventually turn into scabs.