Chickenpox is a contagious infection that is caused by the Varicella zoster virus. It appears as an itchy red rash all over the body with small, fluid-filled blisters. It is highly contagious to children who haven’t had the disease or been vaccinated against it.
The Varicella zoster virus is contagious to those around the infected child from the first two days before the blisters appear till when all the blisters have crusted. Most cases occurs through contact with the infected child and can be spread through saliva, coughing, sneezing and contact with fluid from the blisters.
The chickenpox rash is the most characteristic symptom of the disease. Other symptoms include;
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Red spots
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Malaise
When not properly managed, it may result to further complications such as;
- Dizziness or shortness of breath
- Rash spreading to the eyes
- Pneumonia
- Secondary bacterial infections of the skin, joints or bones
Women exposed during pregnancy may bear children with defects which may include;
- Poor growth
- Small head size
- Eye problems
- Intellectual disabilities
Children diagnosed with chickenpox are to manage the symptoms while the virus pass through the system. Parents are advised to keep their children out of school to prevent the spread of the virus and infected adults are to stay at home.
Antihistamines or topical ointments (e.g Benzyl benzoate) can be used to relieve the itching. Antiviral drugs can be prescribed if complications arises but these drugs do not cure the disease but make the chickenpox symptoms less severe by slowing down viral activity while allowing the child’s immune system to heal faster.
Most children become immune to the virus after healing but later on in life, the virus can be reactivated in the form of shingles. This usually occurs due to advanced age or having a debilitating illness.
These following tips can be helpful when caring for your child while managing the disease;
- Having the child take lukewarm baths
- Applying unscented lotion
- Wearing lightweight or soft clothing
- Having the child take non-aspirin medications to reduce the fever
- Keeping the child’s fingernails trimmed short to prevent the child from hurting himself/herself while scratching the body
NB: Always consult your physician/pharmacist before administering any drug to your child
The chickenpox vaccine prevents the disease in 98% of persons who received the two recommended doses.
A child gets the first shot when he/she is between 12 and 15months of age and gets a booster between 4 and 6years of age.
Older children and adults who haven’t been vaccinated or exposed may receive a catch-up dose of the vaccine.
Dr. Favvy
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