Chickenpox is a viral infection. It is highly contagious. It creates a widespread itchy rash. In some, the infection can also cause serious complications. The infection is more dangerous for adults and newborns. It is also a danger for people with suppressed immune systems.

Chickenpox is caused by the varicella zoster virus (VZV). It spreads from person to person via:

• Airborne droplets of moisture containing the VZV virus
• Direct contact with fluid from a chickenpox rash

It is contagious 1-2 days before the rash erupts. It remains so until all of the blisters have crusted five days later. It is most contagious just after the rash has broken out.

A pregnant mother can transmit virus to fetus.

Factors that increase your chance of getting chickenpox include:

• Close contact with an infected person (unless you've been vaccinated or have already had chickenpox)
• Age: less than three years old with peak incidence between 5-9 years old
• Immune deficient state (eg, leukemia , organ transplantation, high-dose steroid, HIV)
• Cancer
• Pregnancy
• Time of year (late winter, early spring)

Symptoms break out about 10-21 days after contact. They are more severe in adults than they are in children.

Initial symptoms include:

• Mild headache
• Moderate fever
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Severe itch
• Lack of appetite
• General feeling of malaise
• Some children complain of abdominal pain

The rash appears within 1-2 days after the first symptoms. The rash will:

• At first consists of small, flat, red spots
  • Spots become raised and form a round, intensely itchy, fluid-filled blister
  • Blisters develop in clusters, with new clusters forming over 5-6 days
• Usually develop into crops on the skin above the waist, including the scalp
• May also appear on the eyelids, in the mouth, upper airway, voice box, or on the genitals
• Typically crusts over by day six or seven and disappears within three weeks

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Diagnosis is usually made on the basis of age and the rash. Blood and lab tests to identify the virus are rarely needed.

In most people, chickenpox is mild. It will naturally run its course. In these cases, treatment focuses on relieving the symptoms.

• Wet compresses on the skin
• Nonprescription anti-itch creams or lotions
• Oatmeal baths
• Oral antihistamines (eg Benadryl )

• Note : Aspirin is not recommended for children or teens with a current or recent viral infection. This is because of the risk of Reye's syndrome . Ask your doctor which other medicines are safe for your child.

Antibiotics can not cure infections caused by a virus. They may be given if the rash becomes infected with bacteria.

The course, severity and duration of the infection may be reduced by antiviral medications such as:

• Acyclovir
• Valacyclovir
• Famciclovir

They are often used in:

• Adolescents, adults, and individuals with compromised immune systems
• Individuals with chronic skin or lung diseases and those taking aspirin or steroids

Varicella-zoster immune globulin is often given immediately after exposure. It is reserved for newborns and people with weak immune systems.