CHICKENPOX

Description

• Caused by Varicella-zoster Virus.

Causes an itchy rash with small, fluid-filled blisters.

• The rash crusts over to form scabs, which eventually drop off.

Symptoms

• Fever
• Loss of Appetite
• Headache and Malaise
• Raised pink or red bumps (papules), which break out over several days
• Bumps filled with fluid that leak
• Bumps that scab over and begin to heal
• New spots keep appearing in waves for 3-5 days after the rash begins

Causes

• Varicella-zoster virus.
• Inhalation of airborne respiratory droplets from an infected host.
• Viral transmission also occurs through direct contact with the vesicles
• Spreads through cough, sneezing, saliva.

Risk Factors

• You have had recent contact with an infected individual.
• You are under 12 years of age.
• You are an adult residing with children.
• You have spent time in a school or childcare facility.
• Your immune system is compromised due to illness or medications.
• Pregnant women
• Newborn babies.
• People with a weakened immune system
• Diagnostic test
• Physical exam of blisters
• Laboratory tests, blood tests or a culture of lesion samples
• Treatments
• Antihistamine to relieve itching
• Painkillers
• Taking lukewarm baths
• Applying unscented lotion
• Wearing lightweight, soft clothing
• Medications
• Acyclovir (Zovirax)
• Privigen
• Paracetamol

Prevention

• Vaccine should be given between 12 and 15 months of age
• Limiting contact with infected people
• Booster should be given between 4 and 6 years of age
• Lifestyle Management
• Put gloves on hands, especially at night
• Trim fingernails
• A cool bath with added baking soda
• Calamine lotion dabbed on the spots.
• A soft, bland diet if chickenpox sores develop in the mouth.