Chickenpox might seem like a harmless childhood rite of passage, but the viral disease warrants closer attention. Increasing reports of its occurrence have been reported among adults in recent times. While the itchy blisters and mild fever tend to resolve on their own, chickenpox poses certain risks—particularly for babies, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems. This blog will explore the chickenpox virus in depth, including how it spreads, common symptoms, and treatment options.
What is Chickenpox?
Chickenpox is a contagious disease brought on by the Varicella-Zoster virus (VZV). It can cause an extremely itchy, blister-like rash, among other chickenpox symptoms. The rash first appears on the chest, back, and face and then spreads over the entire body. It is transmitted from person to person through direct contact and usually lasts for five to seven days.
Symptoms of Chickenpox
The chickenpox rash appears 10 to 21 days after exposure to the varicella-zoster virus. It often lasts about 5 to 10 days. Other chickenpox symptoms that may appear 1 to 2 days before the onset of the rash include:
- Fever
- Appetite loss
- Headaches
- Tiredness
Once the chickenpox rash appears, it undergoes three phases:
- Raised bumps called papules break out over a few days.
- Small fluid-filled blisters called vesicles form in about one day and then break and leak.
- Chickenpox causes crusts and scabs, which cover the broken vesicles and take some more time to heal. For the next few days, new bumps will keep showing up. You may even have bumps, blisters, and scabs simultaneously. This virus can be spread to other people for up to 48 hours before the appearance of the rash. And the virus stays contagious until all the broken blisters have finally crusted over.
The disease is relatively mild in healthy kids. But sometimes, the rash can cover the entire body, which can cause great discomfort. Blisters may even form in the throat and eyes. They may also form within the inside of the urethra, anus, and vagina.
Chickenpox symptoms in adults who did not get the disease as kids may be similar to those seen in children, but they could be more serious.
Causes of Chickenpox
A virus called varicella-zoster causes chickenpox. This highly contagious virus belongs to the family of herpesviruses, which also includes herpes simplex virus (HSV) types 1 and 2, Epstein-Barr virus, and others. Chickenpox spreads through direct contact with the rash. It can also spread when an infected individual coughs or sneezes and breathes in the air droplets.
How Does Chickenpox Spread?
Individuals who have never had chickenpox, have never received the vaccination, or have a weakened immune system are at the greatest risk of acquiring the infection. Chickenpox is easily transmitted by touching an infected person's blisters, saliva, or mucus. The virus can also spread through the air by coughing and sneezing. It can be spread indirectly by touching an infected person's freshly contaminated items, like clothing. A person with shingles can also cause chickenpox in a person who has never had chickenpox through direct contact. It's important to remember that dry and crusted blisters are no longer contagious.
Diagnosis of chickenpox
Diagnosing chickenpox involves a clinical evaluation based on the characteristic symptoms. The distinctive itchy rash with fluid-filled blisters, fever, and fatigue is a crucial indicator of chickenpox. A doctor or nurse will directly know whether a child or adult has chickenpox by recognising a person's telltale rash and asking a few questions about their symptoms.
If a person is not vaccinated and is unsure of contracting chickenpox as a child, laboratory tests can determine the virus's presence in the body. Adults who have had chickenpox as children will not get the disease again because they develop immunity to the virus. Testing also helps doctors distinguish the symptoms of chickenpox from other conditions with similar symptoms, such as shingles, which is brought on by the same virus that causes chickenpox.
Treatment of Chickenpox
Chickenpox has no cure, but it usually resolves within a week or two without treatment. A doctor may prescribe medication for severe conditions and can advise you on reducing symptoms of itchiness and discomfort.
The following are some chickenpox treatments that may alleviate symptoms:
- Pain-relieving drugs: Acetaminophen may help reduce a high fever and pain when a person has chickenpox. This has to be taken as per the instructions provided by the doctor. Avoid using aspirin-containing products to treat chickenpox, as this can lead to complications.
- Avoiding dehydration: Drink plenty of fluids, preferably water, to prevent dehydration as it can complicate chickenpox.
- Limit certain foods. Avoid salty or spicy foods. If chewing is painful, soup is a good option, but avoid making it too hot.
- Reduce itching: Although difficult, it is essential to minimise scratching to reduce scarring. Topical ointments or cool bath tablets can be helpful.
The following may also help prevent scratching:
- Place soft gloves or even socks over a child's hands when they go to sleep so they do not scratch themselves during the night
- Wear loose clothing
A doctor may prescribe an antiviral medication for pregnant women who get an early diagnosis, for newborn babies, and for those with a compromised immune system.
How Can Chickenpox Be Prevented?
Prevention of chickenpox involves a combination of vaccination, good hygiene practices, and isolation measures. Here are essential preventive measures:
- Vaccination: Ensure that children receive the recommended two doses of the chickenpox vaccine as part of routine immunisation schedules. Adults susceptible to chickenpox or without the disease should also consider vaccination.
- Isolation: Keep individuals with chickenpox isolated from others, especially those who are not immune, until all blisters have crusted over. Avoid as much physical contact as possible with infected people to prevent the spread of the virus.
- Hygiene Practices: Encourage regular washing of hands with soap and clean water, especially if you've had direct contact with an infected person or their belongings. Teach respiratory hygiene, such as covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing to stop the virus from being transmitted.
- Avoiding High-Risk Situations: Individuals with weakened immune systems or pregnant women who are not immune should avoid contact with those infected with chickenpox.
Complications Associated with Chickenpox
Among unvaccinated people who develop chickenpox, a few may have more severe symptoms. Adults are more prone to developing complications than children, but even in adults, it is a rare occurrence.
Contact a doctor if any of the following symptoms show up:
- Infection: If the skin surrounding the spots and blisters becomes red and tender or sore. This may be an indication of a bacterial infection.
- Breathing problems: If a person has breathing difficulties, they may develop pneumonia, which must be addressed immediately.
- Encephalitis: A person can develop inflammation of the brain. Symptoms include confusion, sleepiness, behaviour, or personality changes.
- Reye's syndrome: In rare cases, recovering children and teenagers may develop swelling of the liver and brain.
- Bleeding: A person can experience haemorrhage, which is characterised by blood loss from a ruptured blood vessel.
- Sepsis: An improper response to chickenpox infection within the body may cause sepsis, which is a medical emergency that can lead to organ failure and even death. This is very rare.
Pregnant women have a slightly higher chance of developing pneumonia due to chickenpox. There is also a risk of the mother passing the infection on to her foetus. There is a higher risk of the foetus developing congenital varicella syndrome if the infection occurs during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy. This can cause severe scarring in the foetus, as well as eyesight issues, brain drainage, and shortened arms or legs.
Conclusion
Understanding the various symptoms, treatment options, and preventive measures for chickenpox is crucial for maintaining public health. Vaccination remains the most effective tool in curbing the spread of this infectious disease. Promoting good hygiene practices and awareness can also contribute to a safer and healthier community. Moreover, comprehensive health insurance coverage is vital in ensuring access to timely medical care, covering potential complications, and easing the financial burden associated with healthcare expenses.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.