Chicken Pox
Overview:
Quick Reference
Reviewed by Dr. Clement J. Cheng
Chicken pox is a highly contagious, childhood infectious illness. It is caused by the human herpes virus 3 and spread by sneezing and coughing droplets, as well as contact with the clothing or bedding of an infected person. Chicken pox is marked by an itchy, red rash and red spots that spread from the torso to the neck, limbs, and face. Chicken pox is usually mild in children; adults may suffer more complications if infected by it.
Detailed Information
The chicken pox virus begins with general malaise and a mild fever. The characteristic rash first appears as a few small, reddish bumps that quickly turn into fluid-filled blisters. The rash appears first on the trunk, then spreads to the limbs and head after two to four days. In some cases, the rash spreads to the inside of the mouth and other internal body parts. Within two weeks of the first symptoms, the blisters break and scab, and then fall off. Only rarely is the patient left with scars. To minimize the risk of scarring, do not allow a child with chicken pox to scratch the blisters—an itched blister can lead to infection as well.
Because the disease is highly contagious, children should be kept inside for the duration of the illness. Chicken pox is contagious from two days before the rash appears until six days after the first blister appears. Everyone who has not had chicken pox is susceptible to infection. After a person has had the disease, he or she is usually immune from it for the duration of their lifetime. However, if the virus remains dormant in the body, a person can later develop shingles (painful skin blisters along a nerve).
Symptoms of chicken pox include:
- Feverish and achy
- Skin rash on the torso or head
- Blisters on the mouth, rectum, vagina, or eye
- Rash which quickly turns to blisters
- Blister crust becomes darker over time
- Severe itching
Treatment/Prevention
The main focus of chicken pox treatment is relief from the itching. Cold compresses help, as well as bathing in a lukewarm tub with one cup of baking soda added. Calamine lotion, antihistamines, and medications including menthol are available over the counter at drug stores. Cut the fingernails of small children or cover their hands with mittens to minimize scratching and scarring.
Acetaminophen should be used as a fever reducer. Do not use aspirin—use of aspirin during a viral illness is associated with Reye’s Syndrome, a life-threatening liver and brain illness. Acyclovir is a prescription drug approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for treating chicken pox symptoms in people over the age of two, but mostly recommended for teenagers, who suffer a more severe strain of the illness. It should be taken within 24 hours of the rash’s first appearance for maximum benefits. Vaccinations are now also available for adults or individuals with a compromised immune system. Always remember to keep infected children away from school and from people with weakened immune systems.
Last updated: 01-Mar-01
