What Is Varicella?
Varicella, better known as chickenpox, is a disease that often is contracted during childhood but can strike anyone of any age. Varicella creates rashes and red spots all over the body. According to the New York Department of Health, the illness is the result of the varicella-zoster virus, which is a strand of the herpes virus.
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Effects
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Varicella usually begins similar to a cold, states kidshealth.org. Initially, it starts off with a runny nose and cough. A few days later, a rash breaks out all over the body, usually in the chest and face. The number of rashes differs from person to person. Blisters soon develop and can come in batches. Blisters will stop forming after a week. Within two weeks, rashes will dissipate and the person no longer will be contagious.
Symptoms
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Early symptoms of varicella include a sudden fever, and a sluggish and weak feeling. Itchy blisters, similar to a rash, develop next. These blisters become dry and turn into scabs. Blisters can appear anywhere on the body, and there are instances when they can even form in the mouth, the New York Department of Health reports. Symptoms often appear two weeks after being exposed to the virus.
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How It Spreads
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Varicella is a communicable infection that can be contracted easily, states kidshealth.org. A person with varicella is most infectious within the first week. Since full-blown signs of the infection may not appear within the first few days, a person can often spread the disease to others unknowingly. The virus can be contracted from someone spreading his germs by coughing and sneezing.
Treatment
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Within two weeks, the virus disappears and the blisters disappear. Rest is often all that is needed. The New York Department of Health states that in cases where the virus is severe, physicians can prescribe the medication acyclovir. As the blisters that develop from varicella are itchy, there are certain remedies that can reduce itchiness. Make sure to keep cool by applying a wet washcloth on itchy areas. Try taking a bath with some oatmeal in it. Calamine lotion can also be applied to the problem areas.
Prevention
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Keeping immunized against varicella can help to prevent the virus. Two doses of a variciella vaccine usually are given to children at 12 months. Between the ages of 4 and 6, children are given two more doses. In most states, children are required to receive the varicella vaccine before entering kindergarten. If you are infected with the virus, stay clear of others and stay home until the condition clears.
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