Prevention of Chickenpox

Varicella zostervirus (VZV) is responsible for chickenpox, an airborne contagious illness. The symptoms include a reddened, itchy skin rash that appears in large clusters. It can also cause fatigue, headaches, fever and other complications. With an estimated 3. 5million cases each year, chickenpox ranks as one of the most prevalent childhood diseases in America.

What's Chickenpox?

Varicella is also called chickenpox. It's a viral infection that can be highly contagious. The symptoms include a reddened, itchy, clustered rash on the skin. They can also be accompanied with fever, headaches, and fatigue. The rash can last several days before disappearing. Chickenpox complications can lead to encephalitis and pneumonia. Although chickenpox tends to be more common in children than in adults, it can also occur in adulthood.

Chickenpox: What Causes It?

Varicella zostervirus (VZV) is the cause of chickenpox. It can be spread by direct contact or inhalation from an infected individual. VZV may remain dormant within the body for years before reactivating, leading to shingles. People with chickenpox have a higher risk of developing shingles than people who don't have it.

Chickenpox Treatment

Supportive care is the best treatment for chickenpox. This includes fluids and rest. To reduce the discomfort and fever associated with the rash, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication may be used. To reduce severity or prolong the duration of illness, some people may need to be given antiviral medication such as acyclovir. This medication should be taken within one hour of the onset of symptoms. Chickenpox can be prevented with vaccines.

Progress on Chickenpox

Research has demonstrated that varicella vaccination is safe and effective at preventing chickenpox for both adults and children. The vaccine prevented chickenpox in 94% of children who were vaccinated, according to a study in New England Journal of Medicine. The vaccine also appears to lower the chance of complications such as pneumonia or encephalitis.

Can Chickenpox be Prevented?

Chickenpox can be prevented. Varicella vaccination is the best method to avoid chickenpox. All children between 12 and 18 years old should get the varicella vaccine. Adults who have not had chickenpox are also recommended to receive it. You can also avoid contact with chickenpox-infected people and wash your hands often.

Other than getting the vaccine there are other methods to avoid chickenpox.

• Good hygiene is important. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
• Avoid contact with those who have chickenpox.
• When you cough, sneeze or have a cold, cover your mouth and nose.
• Clean any surfaces which may have been infected with the virus.

This preventive measure can reduce the risk of getting chickenpox or spreading it to other people.

Conclusion

Varicella-zostervirus (VZV) is the virus that causes chickenpox. It's a very contagious viral infection. The symptoms include a reddened, itchy skin rash, fever and fatigue. Varicella vaccination is the best method to avoid chickenpox. You can also avoid contact with chickenpox carriers, practice good hygiene and cover your mouth and nose when you cough. The spread of chickenpox is possible if you take preventive measures.