Chickenpox is a common illness among children in the USA, especially among those who are less than 12 years of age. It's caused as a result of infection by the Varicella-zoster virus (VZV). The illness is characterized by the presence of flu-like symptoms along with the appearance of itchy rashes looking like blisters all over the child’s body.
Chickenpox or varicella vaccine can be given to children to protect from VZV infection. Moreover, even if kids who are vaccinated tend to have milder disease and recover quickly in comparison to those who are not vaccinated.
Chickenpox is highly contagious. Approximately 90% of the individuals who have not got the disease will get the infection after contacting with an infected person. The virus is easily spread in the air from one person to another. For instance, if you have not got the infection, you are at risk of getting it if you remain in the same room with a person suffering from chickenpox for more than 15 minutes; or if you have had face-to-face contact with a patient suffering from chickenpox such as verbal communication.
After getting infected with the virus, the time taking for the appearance of symptoms is usually 7 to 21 days (most commonly 10-14 days), this period is also referred to as incubation period.
People who are more prone to develop complications include:
Individuals who are immunocompromised either as a result of medication or a disease, for example, HIV/AIDS or cancer patients, patients who have organ transplants and patients who are on chemotherapy or other immunosuppressive drugs or who take steroids for a long duration.
Chickenpox can lead to various complications, which are not so common in healthy individuals. Serious complications that may occur include:
Patients suffering from serious complications may need hospitalization as soon as possible. Death may also occur in some cases.
The first symptoms of chickenpox include:
The usual course of chickenpox is around 5-10 days. The telltale sign of chickenpox infection is the development of rashes, which begin on the back and chest and later spread to the other parts of the body (scalp, face, arms and legs). The rashes may also develop on the eyelids, inside the ear, nose and vagina. The rashes itch severely and they spread for 3-4 days.
There are three phases of a rash:
No special treatment is required for majority of the cases of chickenpox. However, you should call your physician if your child has:
You should also call your physician if you are concerned about symptoms of complication. You may be guided by your physician to pay attention to complications and take some medicine for relieving the itching.
The rashes should not be scratched. Keep fingernails short and wear gloves onthe hands.
OTC |
Prescribed Medicines |
Acetaminophen or ibuprofen: They can be used to relieve pain and mild fever. Follow the advice of your physician while using these medications. Aspirin to relieve fever should not be given to any patient younger than20 years old. |
Chickenpox vaccine: People who are exposed to chickenpox virus may avoid the disease by getting a vaccine within 3 days or up to 5 days. The infection will be mild in such cases. |
Antihistamines: Oral antihistamines such as Benadryl can be given to relieve itching. Before using any antihistamine creams or lotions, take the advice from your physician. |
Immunoglobulins: Immunoglobulins are usually prescribed for people who have chronic health problems after exposure to the virus. Pregnant females and immunocompromised persons should also get an IG shot after exposure. |
Antibiotics: Antibiotics may be prescribed if infection develops into the chickenpox blisters. |
Antiviral medicine: Acyclovir is used in adults and patients with weak immune systems. |
1. Chickenpox Vaccine
2. Avoid Contacting People with Chickenpox
Chickenpox is a contagious disease and can be easily spread via air from person to person. Therefore, avoid contacting people with chickenpox.People who are non immune or are in high risk category should especially avoid coming in contact with people with the infection.
3. Sterilization
If someone in your house has the disease, you should take special attention to sterilize your house regularly. Disinfect chairs, tables, toys or countertops which may have been touched by the infected person. Ensure that you wash the clothes and bed sheets of the infected personregularly and thoroughly.
Is the chickenpox vaccine safe? You can get the answer from the video: