Chickenpox (Varicella): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Chickenpox(varicella)
Name
Institution

Abstract
• Chickenpox is a viral infection which is triggered by the varicella-
zoster virus.
• This infection which is manifested by itchy vesicular rash, fever
and mild constitutional symptoms is spread through inhaling
contaminated air, coughing, sneezing and skin-to-skin contact.
• Although the use of vaccination has proved effective, acyclovir
can be used to reduce the symptoms.
• The use of acyclovir is limited to those who are not
hypersensitive.

Introduction
• Chicken pox is an infection which is initiated by the varicella-zoster virus.
• It is characterized by small, itchy blister-like rashes which appears
between 10 to 21 days after being expose to the virus (Mayo Clinic, 2019).
• It is highly contagious and spreads through inhalation of contaminated air
or even skin to skin contact.
• Chickenpox is mostly common among children under the age of 10,
although adults can also get it.
• According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2017), routine
vaccination is highly recommended.

Normal physiology
• The signs of chickenpox include itchy skin rashes on the face,
scalp and trunk with red blisters.
• After very many days, the blisters may begin popping and leaking.
• Before healing, they may scab and form a layer over the skin.
• Generally, chickenpox is very mild, however, in adverse instances,
the blisters might begin spreading to the nose, mouth, eyes or
even the genitals.