What is Chickenpox?

The Varicella-zoster virus (VZV), a member of the herpesvirus family, causes Chickenpox. It is easily transmitted between individuals and is known to have itchy rash with fluid filled blisters. Once recovered, the virus is not the able to exist out of the body, but rather, it lies inactive in nerve tissues and can re-emerge later in life leading to shingles. This peculiarity predetermines that chickenpox is not only an acute disease but has potential long-term consequences as well.


Causes of Chickenpox

  • Chickenpox is an infection that is caused when one is infected by varicella-zoster virus. The virus is transmitted primarily by airborne droplets when an infected human sneezes or coughs. 
  • It is even contagious by direct contact with the liquid of the chickenpox blisters. Touching contaminated surfaces can also transmit the virus though this is of less prevalence in certain cases. 
  • The infection usually takes between 10 and 21 days, whereby the virus grows in the body before it shows any signs or symptoms. One to two days before the rash sets in, the person is infectious and is therefore infectious until all the blisters have crusted up.

Symptoms of Chickenpox

Chicken pox symptoms typically occur in phases and may or may not be mild or severe. 


  • The first symptoms that are likely to occur are fever, fatigue, headache, and lack of appetite. A red rash will immediately come along with these symptoms, and within a short period of time it turns into itchy fluid filled blisters. The rash normally starts on the face, chest or back and later extends to other areas of the body.
  • The blisters rupture and develop a scab as the disease advances. The rash of chickenpox is unique in the sense that it has been found to occur in a wave-like fashion; that is, as new blisters keep forming, old ones keep on healing. 
  • This makes multiple phases of the rash co-exist. Additional symptoms can be a low-grade cough, sore throat, interim discomfort. Symptoms in children are mild, whereas adults can have severer symptoms.

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Treatment of Chickenpox

  • No exact treatment of chickenpox has been developed because it is caused by a virus. It is primarily treated by alleviating symptoms, and allowing the natural healing process in the body. 
  • One requires rest and proper hydration to be at ease; this will aid in the immune system combating the infection. Pain relievers like paracetamol can be administered to relieve fever and alleviate pain.
  • To deal with itching, they may recommend soothing treatments such as calamine lotion, antihistamines, or oatmeal baths. One should not scratch the blisters as this may cause skin infections and scarring. 
  • In some situations, especially among the adults, pregnant women or those with compromised immunity, the physician can prescribe antiviral drugs to alleviate the illness symptoms. The drugs are most effective when administered at the beginning of the infection.

Prevention of Chickenpox

  • The best chickenpox prevention is by getting a vaccination. Good protection is offered by varicella vaccine, which is typically given twice in childhood. 
  • The chickenpox vaccine provides not only protection against contraction, but the severity of the disease in case of infection is decreased.
  • Besides vaccination, preventive actions involve keeping a distance between oneself and the infected people and good hygiene habits like frequent handwashing and mouth cover during coughing or sneezing. 
  • To avoid infecting others, infected people need to remain isolated until the crusting of all the blisters. These are important to contain outbreaks particularly in schools and homes.

Complications of Chickenpox

  • Mild though chickenpox may be, it can result in complications especially among high-risk groups. These can be bacterial skin infections, pneumonia and brain (encephalitis) inflammation. 
  • Adults tend to suffer with severe symptoms and complications more than children. In extreme instances, the infection may result in severe health problems making the patient be hospitalized. Thus, one should watch out for symptoms and consult a doctor in case of any complications.

Chickenpox and Pregnancy

Pregnancy carried chicken pox may be very dangerous to both the mother and the unborn child. The embryo can be infected in early pregnancy, resulting in congenital varicella syndrome, which can result in birth deformities, including limb defects and nervous system issues. When a pregnant individual contracts an infection later in pregnancy, it might impact the child born and cause serious disease. This is why women planning pregnancy are recommended to laboratory test their immunity status and in case of need, take the vaccination before the pregnancy.


Conclusion

Chickenpox is a typical viral disease which is normally not severe but may pose serious conditions in some patients. It is contagious and advances in stages that are easily distinguishable, and early detection is important. No special treatment is offered, but supportive treatment may help with the symptoms. The most appropriate way of prevention is vaccination itself, which is most effective in the elimination of the spread of the disease. Knowing about chickenpox and preventing it by means of proper precautions, one will be able to safeguard themselves and their communities.


Please book an appointment with the best Pediatrician in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and all major cities of Pakistan through InstaCare, or call our helpline at 03171777509 to find a verified doctor for your disease.