Chickenpox is a common childhood illness that most children catch at some point of their lives.
Chickenpox is a viral infection caused by varicella zoster virus. People who get the virus often develop rashes or itchy spots that turn into fluid-filled blisters. They then crust over to form scabs, which eventually drop off.
What happens when you have chickenpox?
Chickenpox may start out seeming like a flu. You might have a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, and a cough. But 1 to 2 days later, the rash begins, often in bunches of spots on the chest and on the face. From there it can spread out quickly almost covering the entire body.
Chickenpox blisters show up in waves, which means that, after some begin to crust over, a new group of spots might appear. New chickenpox usually stop appearing by the seventh day, though they may stop as early as on the third day.
Is chicken pox contagious?
Yes indeed! Chickenpox is a very contagious infection. Nearly 90% of people who have not previously had chickenpox will become infected when they come into contact with the virus.
What’s the best way to prevent chicken pox?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to avoid chicken pox, it is recommended to have two doses of the chicken-pox vaccine — which is 98% effective — for kids, adolescents and adults who haven’t had chicken pox yet.
Children should receive the first dose when they are between 12 months old and 15 months old, and a second dose when they are 4 years old to 6 years old. Adults who have not had the disease and may be in close contact with young children who are likely to be infected should consider getting vaccinated.
Image Credits: newhealthadvisor, medicinenet, medscape
