Chicken Pox
Chickenpox, a highly contagious illness, is common in children,
particularly those under the age of 12 but is also seen in
adults. It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus and is
contagious from about two days before the rash appears and lasts
until all the blisters are crusted over.
How is it spread?
Chickenpox spreads easily. It is most contagious the day before
the rash appears.
It can contracted through direct contact with an infected
person. Even if the person sneezes/coughs, it can be
transmitted.
A pregnant woman with chickenpox can pass it on to her baby
before birth or after delivery.
Symptoms of chickenpox
1. A rash that usually
begins on the body and face and later often spreads to the scalp
and limbs.
2. Itchy rashes.
3. Small red spots which
develop into blisters in a couple of hours.
4. High body
temperature.
Who are at risk of complications?
1.
Pregnant women who have not had chickenpox.
2. People with a weak
immune system, such as those with acute or chronic leukaemia or
HIV.
3. Patients taking
medicine to suppress their immune system, such as long-term oral
corticosteroids.
When to seek Medical Advice
Although most cases of chickenpox heal without complications,
sometimes medical attention is required. Call the doctor if any
of the following conditions develop:
o
Fever higher than 103 F
o
Eye rash
o
Continued dehydration, vomiting, or decreased fluid
intake
o
Blisters that leak a thick, yellow or green fluid.
o
Areas around a blister are red, increasingly painful, or
swollen, or have red streaking extending from the site.
Prevention
·
Avoid being in close proximity of an infected person.
With simple
precautions, Chicken Pox can be prevented. But if contracted, it
is easily treatable. Consult a Doctor on noticing symptoms. |