Varicella

The Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (2012) states, “Varicella is an acute infectious disease caused by varicella zoster virus (VZV)”. Varicella commonly called Chickenpox is a highly contagious disease known as an uncomfortable, itchy rash. The rash is usually found on the face, chest, and back and then spreads to the rest of the body. The rash turns into blisters, and eventually into scabs. Chickenpox is caused by a virus called varicella-zoster virus. Distribution of the disease is multiplied by coughing or sneezing; making the disease highly contagious. The person will get over the virus, but it stays dormant in your body for years occurring as shingles later on. For children, Varicella is one of the most common diseases affecting all children before the ages of 9 years. These children have relatively mild symptoms. The children commonly develop a very itchy, blister like rash that appears 10 to 21 days after exposure and infection with the virus. The blisters …show more content…
According to Shayan T. Vyas, MD (2017), “Chickenpox often starts without the classic rash, with a fever, headache, sore throat, or stomachache. These symptoms may last for a few days; with the fever in the 101°–102°F (38.3°–38.8°C) range.” The disease can show up inside the genital area, eyelids, and mouth. 1-2 days before the rash symptoms that may occur include fever, tiredness, loss of appetite, and headaches (National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, 2016).
The virus spreads easily from people with chickenpox to others who have never had the disease or been vaccinated. The virus spreads mainly by touching or breathing in the virus particles that come from chickenpox blisters, and possibly through tiny droplets from infected people that get into the air after they breathe or talk, for example. It is most contagious on the day before the rash appears.
The Canadian Paediatric Society (2005)