Chicken Pox

Chickenpox, also called varicella, is a virus identified as small red itchy blisters. This virus usually affects children under 12. Most people only get chickenpox once in their life. Since the varicella vaccine was introduced in the mid-90’s it is less common these days.

Itchy red dots are the most common symptom for chickenpox. There is a non-rash version of the virus which includes fever, loss of appetite or a headache. One to two days those rashes will start to appear all over the body. The blisters will then leak with a fluid and then finally crust over and begin to heal. The first 48 hours you are extremely contagious; however, you are still contagious until the blisters have completely scabbed over. The chickenpox virus usually lasts anywhere from one to three weeks.
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Most people are advised to let the virus pass, but there are a few things you can do to soothe the itch. Your doctor may prescribe topical ointments to soothe the skin. You can also calm the skin by taking a lukewarm bath with baking soda or oatmeal. If you are considered ‘at risk’ your doctor may prescribe you an antiviral drug to slow down the viral activity allowing your body to recover quicker.

Since the chickenpox vaccine is so widely available, it is recommended to have two doses of the varicella vaccine: one between 12-15 months and the other booster between 4-6 years of age. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 98% of people are protected from the virus if vaccinated.