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'''Chickenpox''' (also known as '''varicella''') is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the [[varicella-zoster virus]] (VZV)<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.cdc.gov/chickenpox/about/index.html |title=About Chickenpox |publisher=Centers for Disease Control and Prevention |accessdate=2021-08-20}}</ref>. It is characterized by an itchy rash, blisters, and fever. The infection is usually mild in children but can be more severe in adults and individuals with weakened immune systems<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chickenpox/symptoms-causes/syc-20351282 |title=Chickenpox |publisher=Mayo Clinic |accessdate=2021-08-20}}</ref>. Chickenpox is preventable through vaccination.
{{Infobox medical condition (new)
[[File:Varicela Aranzales.jpg|thumb|Varicela Aranzales]]
| name            = Chickenpox
==Symptoms==
| synonyms        = Varicella
Chickenpox typically begins with flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache, and fatigue, followed by the appearance of a rash<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chickenpox/symptoms-causes/syc-20351282 |title=Chickenpox |publisher=Mayo Clinic |accessdate=2021-08-20}}</ref>. The rash consists of small, itchy, red spots that progress into fluid-filled blisters and eventually scab over. The rash often starts on the face, chest, and back before spreading to the rest of the body.
| image          = Varicela Aranzales.jpg
| caption        = A patient presenting with the characteristic blisters of chickenpox
| alt            = Rash and blisters from chickenpox
| field          = [[Infectious disease (medical specialty)|Infectious disease]], [[Dermatology]], [[Pediatrics]]
| symptoms        = [[Blister|Small, itchy blisters]], [[rash]], [[fever]], [[headache]], [[fatigue]], [[loss of appetite]]
| complications  = [[Skin infection]], [[pneumonia]], [[encephalitis]], [[Reye's syndrome]], [[scarring]], [[shingles]]
| onset          = 10–21 days after exposure
| duration        = 5–10 days
| types          = Primary varicella (chickenpox), Secondary reactivation (shingles)
| causes          = [[Varicella zoster virus]]
| risks          = [[Immunodeficiency]], [[pregnancy]], [[infancy]], [[adult age]], lack of [[vaccination]]
| diagnosis      = [[Clinical diagnosis]], [[polymerase chain reaction]] (PCR), [[serology]]
| differential    = [[Smallpox]], [[measles]], [[insect bites]], [[impetigo]], [[herpes simplex]]
| prevention      = [[Varicella vaccine]], [[herd immunity]]
| treatment      = Supportive care, symptom management, antiviral therapy in severe cases
| medication      = [[Paracetamol]] (acetaminophen), [[calamine lotion]], [[acyclovir]], [[antihistamines]]
| prognosis      = Excellent in healthy children; risk of complications in adults and immunocompromised
| frequency      = Common in unvaccinated populations; incidence reduced in countries with routine vaccination
| deaths          = ~6,400 per year globally (including from [[shingles]])
}}


Other possible symptoms include:
[[File:Chickenpox blister.jpg|thumb|A single blister, typical during the early stages of the rash]]
[[File:Chickenpox.png|thumb|Chickenpox]]
'''Chickenpox''' (also known as '''varicella''') is a highly contagious [[viral infection]] caused by the [[varicella-zoster virus]] (VZV). It is characterized by an itchy [[skin rash]], [[blister]]s, and [[fever]]. The infection is typically mild in [[children]] but can be more severe in [[adults]] and people with [[weakened immune systems]]. Chickenpox is preventable through [[vaccination]].


* Loss of appetite
== Symptoms ==
* Sore throat
Chickenpox generally begins with flu-like symptoms, such as:
* Swollen lymph nodes
* [[Fever]]
==Causes==
* [[Headache]]
Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, a member of the herpesvirus family<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/chickenpox |title=Chickenpox |publisher=World Health Organization |accessdate=2021-08-20}}</ref>. It spreads through direct contact with the fluid from the blisters, airborne droplets from an infected person's cough or sneeze, or contact with contaminated surfaces.
* [[Fatigue]]
* [[Loss of appetite]]
* [[Sore throat]]
* [[Swollen lymph nodes]]


==Diagnosis==
These are followed by a distinctive rash, which:
Chickenpox is generally diagnosed based on the characteristic rash and accompanying symptoms. In some cases, laboratory tests may be used to confirm the diagnosis, such as a blood test or a swab from a blister<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.m
* Starts as small, red, itchy spots
* Progresses to fluid-filled [[blisters]]
* Scabs over within a few days


ayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chickenpox/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351287 |title=Chickenpox: Diagnosis & treatment |publisher=Mayo Clinic |accessdate=2021-08-20}}</ref>.
The rash often starts on the [[face]], [[chest]], and [[back]], spreading across the body.


==Treatment==
== Causes ==
There is no specific antiviral treatment for chickenpox, but antiviral medications, such as acyclovir, can be prescribed for severe cases or high-risk individuals to help reduce the severity and duration of the infection<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.cdc.gov/chickenpox/about/treatment.html |title=Treatment |publisher=Centers for Disease Control and Prevention |accessdate=2021-08-20}}</ref>. Over-the-counter medications, such as pain relievers and antihistamines, can help alleviate symptoms like fever, pain, and itching. It is important to avoid scratching the rash, as this can lead to skin infections and scarring.
Chickenpox is caused by the [[varicella-zoster virus]], a member of the [[herpesvirus]] family. It spreads via:
* Direct contact with [[blister]] fluid
* Airborne droplets from [[cough]]s or [[sneeze]]s
* Contact with contaminated [[surfaces]]


Home care remedies include:
== Diagnosis ==
Diagnosis is usually based on clinical symptoms, especially the characteristic [[rash]]. In uncertain cases, laboratory tests such as:
* [[Blood test]]s
* [[Polymerase chain reaction|PCR]] tests
* Swabs of skin lesions


* Cool baths or compresses to soothe the skin
== Treatment ==
* Calamine lotion to help with itching
Treatment focuses on symptom relief. Most cases resolve without complications. Common approaches include:
* Keeping the nails short to prevent scratching and infection
* Wearing loose, comfortable clothing
==Prevention==
A vaccine for chickenpox is available and is part of routine childhood immunization programs in many countries<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/chickenpox |title=Chickenpox |publisher=World Health Organization |accessdate=2021-08-20}}</ref>. The vaccine is highly effective in preventing chickenpox and reducing the severity of the disease if it does occur. In addition to vaccination, proper hand hygiene and avoiding contact with infected individuals can help reduce the risk of contracting the virus.


==Complications==
=== Medications ===
Although chickenpox is generally a mild disease, complications can occur, especially in adults, pregnant women, newborns, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Possible complications include<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chickenpox/symptoms-causes/syc-20351282 |title=Chickenpox |publisher=Mayo Clinic |accessdate=2021-08-20}}</ref>:
* [[Antiviral drug]]s (e.g., [[acyclovir]]) for high-risk individuals
* [[Antihistamines]] to reduce itching
* [[Acetaminophen]] or [[ibuprofen]] to reduce fever (aspirin should be avoided due to risk of [[Reye's syndrome]])


* Skin infections
=== Home care ===
* Pneumonia
* Cool baths or wet compresses
* Dehydration
* [[Calamine lotion]]
* Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain)
* Short, clean fingernails to prevent scratching
* Toxic shock syndrome
* Loose-fitting clothing
* Reye's syndrome (a rare but serious condition that can affect the liver and brain)
After recovery from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the body and can reactivate later in life, causing shingles<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.cdc.gov/shingles/about/index.html |title=Shingles (Herpes Zoster) |publisher=Centers for Disease Control and Prevention |accessdate=2021-08-20}}</ref>. Shingles is characterized by a painful rash and can lead to complications, such as postherpetic neuralgia (long-lasting nerve pain) and vision problems. A separate vaccine is available to help prevent shingles in older adults.


==Immunity==
== Prevention ==
After recovering from chickenpox, most individuals develop lifelong immunity to the varicella-zoster virus, meaning they will not get chickenpox again<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/chickenpox |title=Chickenpox |publisher=World Health Organization |accessdate=2021-08-20}}</ref>. However, as mentioned previously, the virus remains dormant in the body and can reactivate later in life, causing shingles. People who have not had chickenpox or have not been vaccinated are at risk of contracting the virus.


==Vaccine Schedule==
Prevention is mainly through vaccination:
The chickenpox vaccine is usually given in two doses, with the first dose administered at 12 to 15 months of age, and the second dose given between 4 and 6 years of age<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/hcp/imz/child-adolescent.html |title=Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule |publisher=Centers for Disease Control and Prevention |accessdate=2021-08-20}}</ref>. In some cases, the vaccine may be given to older children, adolescents, and adults who have not previously had chickenpox or received the vaccine.
* Two doses of the [[chickenpox vaccine]] (varicella vaccine)
* First dose: 12–15 months
* Second dose: 4–6 years


The vaccine is contraindicated in certain situations, such as pregnancy, severe allergic reactions to a previous dose or vaccine component, and immunosuppression. In these cases, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to discuss the risks and benefits of vaccination<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/varicella/hcp/contraindications.html |title=Varicella Vaccination: Contraindications |publisher=Centers for Disease Control and Prevention |accessdate=2021-08-20}}</ref>.
Other preventive measures:
* Good hand hygiene
* Avoiding contact with infected individuals


==Global Impact==
== Complications ==
Chickenpox is a global public health concern, with millions of cases reported each year<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/chickenpox |title=Chickenpox |publisher=World Health Organization |accessdate=2021-08-20}}</ref>. The disease is more common in regions with limited access to the vaccine or lower vaccination rates. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends routine childhood vaccination against chickenpox, as it has been shown to significantly reduce the number of cases and prevent complications.
While typically mild, chickenpox can cause serious complications, especially in:
* [[Pregnant women]]
* [[Newborns]]
* [[Immunocompromised]] individuals


Efforts to increase vaccine coverage and improve public awareness about the importance of vaccination can help reduce the global burden of chickenpox and its associated complications.
Potential complications include:
* [[Bacterial skin infection]]s
* [[Pneumonia]]
* [[Encephalitis]]
* [[Dehydration]]
* [[Sepsis]]
* [[Reye's syndrome]] (linked to aspirin use)


==Post-Exposure Prophylaxis==
== Shingles and Immunity ==
In certain situations, post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) may be recommended for individuals who have been exposed to the varicella-zoster virus and are at a higher risk of developing severe chickenpox or complications<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/rr5604a1.htm |title=Prevention of Varicella: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) |publisher=Centers for Disease Control and Prevention |accessdate=2021-08-20}}</ref>. PEP options include varicella vaccination and varicella-zoster immune globulin (VZIG).
After recovery, the virus becomes dormant in [[nerve cells]]. It may reactivate later in life as [[shingles]] (herpes zoster), causing a painful rash. Individuals typically gain lifelong immunity to chickenpox after infection.


Varicella vaccination can be administered within 3-5 days of exposure to the virus to help prevent chickenpox or reduce the severity of the disease. This option is suitable for healthy individuals who have not previously been vaccinated or had chickenpox<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/varicella/hcp/clinical-considerations.html |title=Varicella Vaccination: Clinical Considerations |publisher=Centers for Disease Control and Prevention |accessdate=2021-08-20}}</ref>.
== Post-exposure Prophylaxis ==
For exposed individuals at high risk, options include:
* Varicella vaccine (within 3–5 days of exposure)
* [[Varicella-zoster immune globulin]] (VZIG) for immunocompromised patients


VZIG, a preparation of antibodies against the varicella-zoster virus, can be given to high-risk individuals, such as pregnant women, newborns, and immunocompromised patients, within 10 days of exposure to the virus. VZIG can help reduce the severity of the disease and the risk of complications<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.cdc.gov/chickenpox/hcp/clinical-overview.html |title=Chickenpox (Varicella): Clinical Overview |publisher=Centers for Disease Control and Prevention |accessdate=2021-08-20}}</ref>.
== Public Health and Global Impact ==
Chickenpox remains common in countries without widespread vaccination programs. In high-income countries, routine immunization has dramatically reduced incidence and complications.


==Eradication Efforts==
== School and Travel Considerations ==
Eradication of chickenpox may be challenging due to several factors, including the virus's ability to remain dormant in the body and reactivate later in life as shingles, as well as the existence of asymptomatic carriers who can transmit the virus without showing symptoms<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2772672/ |title=Varicella-Zoster Virus: A Global Public Health Challenge |publisher=NCBI |accessdate=2021-08-20}}</ref>. However, widespread vaccination has significantly reduced the incidence of chickenpox and its complications in countries with routine immunization programs.
Many schools require documentation of chickenpox immunity. During outbreaks, unvaccinated students may be excluded temporarily. Travelers should confirm their immunity status before visiting high-risk areas.


Continued efforts to improve vaccine coverage, surveillance, and public awareness can help further reduce the global burden of chickenpox. Collaborative efforts between governments, healthcare providers, and international organizations, such as the WHO, will be crucial in controlling and potentially eliminating this disease.
== See also ==
* [[Varicella zoster virus]]
* [[Herpesvirus]]
* [[Shingles]]
* [[Childhood infectious diseases]]
* [[Vaccination]]


==Public Health Messaging==
Public health messaging is essential to raise awareness about the importance of chickenpox vaccination and the potential consequences of the disease. Key messages should focus on the benefits of vaccination, including the prevention of severe illness, complications, and hospitalization, as well as the importance of following the recommended vaccine schedule. Additionally, public health campaigns can provide information on how to recognize the symptoms of chickenpox, proper home care, and when to seek medical attention.
By promoting awareness and understanding of chickenpox and its prevention, public health messaging can play a critical role in reducing the incidence and impact of this disease worldwide.
==School and Childcare Policies==
Many schools and childcare facilities require proof of chickenpox vaccination or documentation of immunity through a history of chickenpox or serological evidence before allowing children to enroll<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/imz-managers/laws/state-reqs.html |title=State School and Childcare Vaccination Laws |publisher=Centers for Disease Control and Prevention |accessdate=2021-08-20}}</ref>. These policies help protect vulnerable individuals, such as those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons, and contribute to overall community immunity (also known as herd immunity).
In the event of a chickenpox outbreak in a school or childcare setting, unvaccinated or susceptible children may be required to stay home until the risk of transmission has passed. This can help prevent the spread of the virus and protect those at higher risk of severe illness or complications<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.cdc.gov/chickenpox/outbreaks/manual.html |title=Managing People at Risk for Severe Varicella |publisher=Centers for Disease Control and Prevention |accessdate=2021-08-20}}</ref>.
==Travel Considerations==
Travelers should ensure they are up-to-date on their chickenpox vaccinations before visiting areas with a higher incidence of the disease or during outbreaks. This is particularly important for individuals at increased risk of complications, such as pregnant women, immunocompromised individuals, and healthcare workers.
In addition to vaccination, travelers should practice good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing and avoiding contact with individuals who have chickenpox or show signs of the infection<ref>{{cite web |url=https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/diseases/chickenpox-varicella |title=Chickenpox (Varicella) |publisher=Centers for Disease Control and Prevention |accessdate=2021-08-20}}</ref>. In case of exposure to the virus during travel, individuals should seek prompt medical advice and follow recommended post-exposure prophylaxis measures.
==Cost-effectiveness of Vaccination==
The chickenpox vaccine has been shown to be cost-effective in preventing the disease and its complications, particularly when considering the costs associated with medical care, hospitalization, and lost productivity due to illness<ref>{{cite web |url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22867753/ |title=Economic evaluations of varicella vaccination programmes: a review of the literature |publisher=PubMed |accessdate=2021-08-20}}</ref>. Widespread vaccination can lead to significant reductions in the direct and indirect costs of chickenpox, while also improving the overall health and well-being of the population.
== Summary ==
Chickenpox is a contagious disease that causes a rash and a fever; most commonly occurs during childhood.
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Revision as of 18:34, 26 March 2025

Chickenpox
Rash and blisters from chickenpox
Synonyms Varicella
Pronounce N/A
Field Infectious disease, Dermatology, Pediatrics
Symptoms Small, itchy blisters, rash, fever, headache, fatigue, loss of appetite
Complications Skin infection, pneumonia, encephalitis, Reye's syndrome, scarring, shingles
Onset 10–21 days after exposure
Duration 5–10 days
Types Primary varicella (chickenpox), Secondary reactivation (shingles)
Causes Varicella zoster virus
Risks Immunodeficiency, pregnancy, infancy, adult age, lack of vaccination
Diagnosis Clinical diagnosis, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), serology
Differential diagnosis Smallpox, measles, insect bites, impetigo, herpes simplex
Prevention Varicella vaccine, herd immunity
Treatment Supportive care, symptom management, antiviral therapy in severe cases
Medication Paracetamol (acetaminophen), calamine lotion, acyclovir, antihistamines
Prognosis Excellent in healthy children; risk of complications in adults and immunocompromised
Frequency Common in unvaccinated populations; incidence reduced in countries with routine vaccination
Deaths ~6,400 per year globally (including from shingles)


A single blister, typical during the early stages of the rash
Chickenpox

Chickenpox (also known as varicella) is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It is characterized by an itchy skin rash, blisters, and fever. The infection is typically mild in children but can be more severe in adults and people with weakened immune systems. Chickenpox is preventable through vaccination.

Symptoms

Chickenpox generally begins with flu-like symptoms, such as:

These are followed by a distinctive rash, which:

  • Starts as small, red, itchy spots
  • Progresses to fluid-filled blisters
  • Scabs over within a few days

The rash often starts on the face, chest, and back, spreading across the body.

Causes

Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, a member of the herpesvirus family. It spreads via:

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is usually based on clinical symptoms, especially the characteristic rash. In uncertain cases, laboratory tests such as:

Treatment

Treatment focuses on symptom relief. Most cases resolve without complications. Common approaches include:

Medications

Home care

  • Cool baths or wet compresses
  • Calamine lotion
  • Short, clean fingernails to prevent scratching
  • Loose-fitting clothing

Prevention

Prevention is mainly through vaccination:

  • Two doses of the chickenpox vaccine (varicella vaccine)
  • First dose: 12–15 months
  • Second dose: 4–6 years

Other preventive measures:

  • Good hand hygiene
  • Avoiding contact with infected individuals

Complications

While typically mild, chickenpox can cause serious complications, especially in:

Potential complications include:

Shingles and Immunity

After recovery, the virus becomes dormant in nerve cells. It may reactivate later in life as shingles (herpes zoster), causing a painful rash. Individuals typically gain lifelong immunity to chickenpox after infection.

Post-exposure Prophylaxis

For exposed individuals at high risk, options include:

Public Health and Global Impact

Chickenpox remains common in countries without widespread vaccination programs. In high-income countries, routine immunization has dramatically reduced incidence and complications.

School and Travel Considerations

Many schools require documentation of chickenpox immunity. During outbreaks, unvaccinated students may be excluded temporarily. Travelers should confirm their immunity status before visiting high-risk areas.

See also

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Diseases of the skin and appendages by morphology
Growths
Rashes
With
epidermal
involvement
Eczematous
Scaling
Blistering
Papular
Pustular
Without
epidermal
involvement
Miscellaneous
disorders


Skin infections, symptoms and signs related to viruses
Ungrouped


Varicella zoster
Varicella zoster virus
Diseases
Treatment
Prevention
Other
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