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Chickenpox (Varicella)
Description of chickenpox
Chickenpox is a viral infection. It is highly contagious. When the disease appears widespread chickenpox, itchy rash. The infection can also cause serious complications in some people. Chickenpox is more dangerous for adults and newborns. Besides, there is a danger for people with suppressed immune systems.
Causes of chickenpox
Chickenpox is caused by varicella-zoster virus (BBO). It spreads from person to person:
- Airborne particles from the water, containing VZV virus;
- Through direct contact with fluid from chickenpox rash;
A person with chickenpox is most contagious until, until all the blisters are not covered with a crust (it usually takes five days after the rash appears). The most contagious period of chicken pox – immediately after the appearance of the rash.
A pregnant mother can transmit the virus to the fetus, which can lead to irreversible damage to the child in the womb.
Risk factors for chickenpox
Factors, that may increase the risk of chickenpox include:
- Close contact with an infected person, if you have not been vaccinated or have already had chickenpox;
- Age: less than three years, with a peak incidence between the 5-9 years;
- Immunodeficiency states, eg, the presence of leukemia, organ transplants, high doses of steroid drugs or the presence of HIV;
- Cancer;
- Pregnancy;
- Season (end of winter, early spring).
The symptoms of chickenpox
Symptoms appear within 10-21 day after infection. They are more severe in adults, than in children.
Initial symptoms include:
- Mild headache;
- Mild fever;
- Cough;
- Sore throat;
- Intense itching;
- Anorexia;
- The feeling of malaise;
- Some children complain of abdominal pain.
The rash appears within 1-2 days after the first symptoms.
- Rash is a small first, flat, Red spots:
- The spots become raised and form a round, strongly itchy, fluid-filled blisters;
- Blisters are grouped together, which are formed during the 5-6 days;
- Usually, blisters is most pronounced above the belt, including the scalp;
- They may also be formed on the eyelids, oral, upper respiratory tract, larynx or genitals;
- Usually the blisters crust over six or seven days after the appearance and disappear within three weeks.
Diagnosis of chickenpox
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical examination. The diagnosis is usually based on the presence of rash and age of the patient. Blood tests and other laboratory tests, usually, rarely held.
Treatment of chickenpox
Chickenpox occurs in most people quite easily. Treatment often aimed at relieving symptoms.
Reduction of itching chickenpox
- Wet compresses on the skin;
- Nonprescription creams or lotions anti-itch;
- Baths of oatmeal;
- Oral antihistamines, such as Benadryl.
Attention: Children and teens with a current or recent viral infection should not take aspirin, because of the risk of Reye's syndrome.. Ask the doctor, What other medicines are safe for your child.
Antibiotics chickenpox
Antibiotics can not cure infections, caused by viruses. They can be administered, if the rash becomes infected with bacteria.
Pprotivovirusnыe drugs in vetryanke
The severity and duration of the infection can be reduced when receiving antivirals, such as:
- Acyclovir;
- Valacyclovir;
- Famciclovir.
They are often used to treat chickenpox in:
- Teenagers, adults and people with weakened immune systems;
- Individuals with chronic skin or lung diseases, as well as, who take aspirin or steroids.
Special needs in the treatment of chickenpox
Often, immediately after infection with chickenpox patients assigned immunoglobulin. It is designed for newborns and people with weak immune systems.
Prevention of chickenpox
Avoid contact with people, sick with chickenpox. It is very important, if you have not been vaccinated against this infection.
Vaccination against chickenpox in children
For children recommended vaccine against varicella, or a combination vaccine, It called MMRV. MMRV protects against measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella.
Exist “catching” vaccination schedule, if a child missed the usual vaccinations.
Adult Vaccination against chickenpox
Adult, who have never had chickenpox or have not been vaccinated against chickenpox should be vaccinated.
Vaccination after exposure to a sick chickenpox
If you or your child has not been vaccinated and have been exposed to varicella, vaccine, introduced immediately after exposure can reduce the severity of the disease or prevent infection.
