Diseases
chickenpox
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Chickenpox is an infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It causes an itchy rash with small, fluid-filled blisters. Chickenpox is highly contagious to people who haven't had the disease or been vaccinated against it.
Symptoms
- fever
- loss of appetite
- small fluid-filled blisters (vesicles), which form in about one day
- tiredness and a general feeling of being unwell (malaise)
- raised pink or red bumps (papules), which break out over several days
Causes
- chickenpox infection is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. it can spread through direct contact with the rash. it can also spread when a person with the chickenpox coughs or sneezes and you inhale the air droplets.
Risk factors
- risk of becoming infected with the varicella-zoster virus that
- causes chickenpox is higher if you haven't already had chickenpox or if you...
- ... haven't had the chickenpox vaccine.
Diagnosis
- lab tests
- doctors generally diagnose chickenpox based on the rash.
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is chickenpox?
Chickenpox is an infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It causes an itchy rash with small, fluid-filled blisters. Chickenpox is highly contagious to people who haven't had the disease or been vaccinated against it.
What are the symptoms of chickenpox?
fever, loss of appetite, small fluid-filled blisters (vesicles), which form in about one day, tiredness and a general feeling of being unwell (malaise), raised pink or red bumps (papules), which break out over several days
What causes chickenpox?
chickenpox infection is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. it can spread through direct contact with the rash. it can also spread when a person with the chickenpox coughs or sneezes and you inhale the air droplets.
Which medicines are used for chickenpox?
acyclovir, valacyclovir
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