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Chickenpox is an infection caused by the Varicella-zoster virus. It is most common in children. The chickenpox virus spreads very easily through the air or through direct contact with the fluid in a chickenpox blister.
Chickenpox may begin with a mild fever. It is followed in a day or two by a rash which may be very itchy. The rash starts with red spots that soon turn into fluid-filled blisters. In a few days, crusts form over the blisters. Chickenpox is infectious 1-3 days prior to the onset of the rash through the air. The fluid in the blisters is also a source of infection if there is direct contact with it.
After infection, the virus stays in the body for life. Therefore, you are immune against the chickenpox virus. Although most people do not get chickenpox twice, the virus residing in the body can cause “shingles” (herpes zoster). Shingles is a reoccurrence of the chickenpox. Shingles occurs along a nerve pathway where the virus resides. It results in fluid filled blisters in the area along this pathway. Shingles is not as contagious as chicken pox and is not spread through the air but through direct contact. A person with sores is contagious for a week after the appearance of these lesions.
Chickenpox vaccine
A vaccine known as Varivax is available to prevent chickenpox. One dose is advised for children 12 months to 12 years of age. Those who are 13 years or older, receive two doses 4-8 weeks apart. Varivax should NOT be used in pregnancy however women who have not had chickenpox and are considering a future pregnancy may receive the vaccines. Woman should not become pregnant for one month after receiving the second needle. There is a cost for this vaccine. Discuss the fee with your physician or health unit.
Should a pregnant woman contract chickenpox when she is close to delivering her baby, it could lead to the baby being born with neonatal varicella which could result in some complications. If you become exposed and are pregnant and not immune it is important to inform your health care provider.
Adapted from the Middlesex-London Health Unit. August 2005.
14 Mar 2008 14:44:36 -0500
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