What is Chickenpox? What are the symptoms, How is it prevented, How is it treated?

 

Chickenpox is a widespread infection caused by the Varicella Zoster virus. Children can develop a rash of itchy spots that turn into blisters, which later become small, shallow sores. 

They typically appear across the body and are most common on the head, face, and torso. Over the course of a few days, the blisters will dry and scab over. The scabs might leave temporary marks that could be darker than the skin.

The rash tends to be more concentrated on the central parts of the body, such as the chest and back, and less on the extremities like hands and feet. The number of blisters can vary.

Chickenpox usually affects children between the ages of 2 and 10. The rash and subsequent scabbing generally occur within two weeks of exposure to the virus.

Chickenpox is contagious from the second day of the rash until the scabs have crusted over, which typically takes about five days after the rash first appears.

The rash itself doesn't usually lead to significant complications, although intense scratching can cause secondary bacterial infections, which are more likely to affect people after the first occurrence.

 

What are the symptoms of Chickenpox?

Chickenpox is characterized by an initial period of mild fever and other flu-like symptoms, followed by the appearance of a rash. The rash typically starts as small red spots that then develop into itchy blisters. The following are common symptoms associated with chickenpox:

1. Fever.

2. Generalized Rash.

3. Itchy Blisters.

4. Headache.

5. Fatigue.

 

How is it prevented?

To prevent spreading, children should avoid contact with others, and stay home from school and public places, until the scabs have fully crusted over. While the chickenpox vaccine is not part of the routine immunization program, it can be used for chickenpox prevention. The vaccine is administered in two doses, usually at 12 months of age.

 

How is it treated?

Children with chickenpox usually do not need any specific treatment beyond relieving symptoms and preventing scratching to avoid secondary bacterial infections.

If a bacterial infection occurs, it can usually be treated with antibiotics. Calamine lotion can help soothe itching, but it's important to avoid getting it in the eyes.

 

Important Points

1. Chickenpox is a viral infection caused by the Varicella Zoster virus.

2. Most of the rash or lesions are seen on the central part of the body, including the chest, back, head, and face.

3. The virus typically has an incubation period of around 7 days, with the rash appearing 2 days before and up to 5 days after the scab’s form.

4. Children should stay home from school until the chickenpox scabs have crusted over, usually about a week.

5. Do not scratch the blisters, as it can lead to complications.

6. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing secondary bacterial infections.