Chickenpox is an incredibly common virus known across the globe for its distinctive rash, itchy blisters, and fever.

Characterized as an infectious illness caused by the varicella zoster virus, the condition is also often referred to scientifically (and more accurately) as varicella. The chickenpox virus is highly contagious, and spreads easily through the air – initially as droplets of fluid released when an infected individual sneezes, coughs, or talks. It can sometimes be transmitted by direct contact with an infected person's skin.

While the virus is most commonly found among young people, it can affect individuals of any age. Once a person contracts the disease, there are several simple measures they can take to help manage the symptoms and treat the virus safely, and reduce the risk of it spreading to other people. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at chickenpox, and provide a comprehensive guide for navigating life during a chickenpox infection.

About Chickenpox 

The virus that causes chickenpox is most commonly known as the varicella zoster virus, however, it is often referred to by its more accurate scientific name, varicella. This virus is highly contagious and, as previously mentioned, is most commonly found among young people. Once contracted, the illness follows a predictable pattern of symptoms that begin with the appearance of an itchy red rash, followed by the formation of blisters and/or scabs. These blisters and/or scabs can spread and move onto the face, scalp, limbs and torso.

Typically, the infection begins with the formation of a fever alongside the rash. It can also be accompanied by a general feeling of malaise or ill health. In young children, the symptoms usually appear quickly, but in adults, or those with weakened immune systems, the symptoms may take longer to manifest.

Transmission and Treatment

The virus is most commonly transmitted through the air, by coming into contact with sneezes, coughs, and the saliva of infected individuals. It can also be spread through direct contact with an infected person's skin, however, this is not as common. It is important to note that the virus is highly contagious and even a simple handshake with an infected individual can spread the virus to another person.

The virus is typically treated with over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen to reduce pain and swelling in the area of the rash. Anti-itch creams can also be applied to relieve itching. It is important to note that most medications used to treat the illness, such as ibuprofen, are only suitable for individuals over six months of age. Younger children, or those with weakened immune systems, may require a different course of treatment.

Prevention
The best way to prevent the spread of chickenpox is to get vaccinated. The vaccine is usually given in two doses, and is the most effective form of prevention. It is important to note, however, that the vaccine may not provide full protection against contracting the virus; but it does reduce the chances of anyone developing serious complications from the infection. Those who have previously had the virus may still need to be vaccinated.

Those who have not been vaccinated, or have not had chickenpox, should take extra precautions when coming into contact with someone infected with the virus. It is important to avoid direct contact with an infected individual and to practice basic hygiene such as frequent hand-washing and use of hand sanitizers to reduce the risk of contracting the virus.

Chickenpox is an extremely contagious virus that is easily spread through the air or direct contact with an infected individual. While the virus is most common among young people, it can affect individuals of any age. The best way to prevent the spread of chickenpox is to get vaccinated, however, the virus can still spread even with vaccination. Those who have not been vaccinated or have not had the virus should take extra care when coming into contact with someone infected with the disease. Those with chickenpox should take certain simple measures to help themselves manage the symptoms and treat the virus safely. With the right treatment and care, it is possible to endure chickenpox relatively unscathed, and in good health.