There are many different ways to get Chickenpox, but the main thing to know is that it is an extremely contagious illness. Here's how to recognize it, what causes it, how to get rid of it, and how to prevent chickenpox. The varicella-zoster virus is the cause. Here's a quick look at the symptoms of the disease. To prevent the disease, you should seek medical treatment right away.
Contagious illness caused by varicella-zoster virus
Varicella-zoster virus infection is highly contagious and can spread from person to person through infected droplets. The symptoms of varicella include an itchy rash and malaise. A temperature of 102degF can also occur. Children with weakened immune systems, pregnant women and adults are most susceptible to this contagious illness. Children can acquire lifelong immunity to varicella by having only one infection. The second infection is rare, but can occur in immunocompromised individuals. Re-exposure to natural varicella or to wild-type varicella is known to boost antibody titers without the risk of illness.
Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It is a highly contagious illness that is usually mild, lasting about four to five days. It results in a red, itchy rash that is sometimes accompanied by fever and malaise. Among children, the symptoms of varicella are mild and temporary. Among adults, however, the condition can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia and encephalitis. This virus can be transmitted through coughing and touching blistered skin.
Symptoms
If you suspect that you or a loved one may be suffering from chickenpox, you need to seek medical attention right away. Chickenpox is not a serious illness but it can lead to complications such as dehydration, which can be dangerous. Children with chickenpox should avoid spicy and salty foods and drink plenty of fluids. Avoid the use of aspirin in the case of chickenpox, which is linked to Reye syndrome, a serious condition that can affect the liver and brain. Other options include applying hydrocortisone cream to itchy areas, topical ointments, or even taking a cool bath. In some cases, antiviral medicine may be prescribed. However, it must be started within 24 hours of the rash.
If you are pregnant, try to avoid coming into contact with people who have chickenpox. Vaccination for chickenpox has been adopted in the U.S., and cases of the disease have dropped dramatically since then. While vaccination is the best way to prevent chickenpox, if you think you've been exposed to someone with chickenpox, visit your doctor. The rash develops into fluid-filled blisters that will eventually crust and fall off. The rash may appear on your cheeks, face, and back, or it may spread to your arms, legs, and even your eyes.
Treatment
A common treatment for chickenpox is antiviral drugs. Zovirax is the primary antiviral drug used to treat chickenpox. This medicine is usually taken by mouth but may be given intravenously in severe cases. It is not recommended for pregnant women as it may cause teratogenicity if used in the first trimester. However, women who are at high risk for chickenpox can take steps to prevent infection.
Antiviral medication, valacyclovir and acyclovir, are prescribed for chickenpox. These medicines are commonly used to treat the rash and lessen the severity of the disease. The main side effects of valacyclovir and famciclovir are mild or moderate. Symptoms of chickenpox may go away after a couple of weeks. In severe cases, acyclovir can be administered intravenously, but in most cases, the rash will go away on its own.
Prevention
There are several strategies for prevention of chickenpox. The most important is not to touch the affected area - a scratching motion can spread the virus, and bacteria can hide under the fingernails. Furthermore, scratching may lead to the development of scars. Consequently, fingernail clipping should be used to limit these risks. Despite the severity of chickenpox, most individuals recover completely. However, complications can occur, and acyclovir is used to treat them. Some of the most serious complications can occur in pregnant women, including pneumonia and Reye syndrome, which can damage the brain and liver.
Varicella is an infection caused by the varicella zoster virus, which is highly contagious. Most healthy children will recover within a month or two. However, in some susceptible individuals, the virus can lead to significant complications, including soft tissue infection, pneumonia, encephalitis, and hepatitis. Although the infection itself is self-limited in healthy individuals, it is important to protect yourself from the disease by following a vaccination schedule and avoiding exposure to high-risk populations.
