by Jennifer Kennedy

Created on: June 06, 2008   Last Updated: June 09, 2008

Chickenpox is a disease which is caused by the Varicella Zoster virus, which is related to the herpes virus, as we all know chickenpox can affect both children and adults and it is highly contagious. The disease is usually worse for adults than it is children.

Symptoms of chickenpox

Symptoms of chickenpox will usually occur 10 - 21 days after having contact with someone who has chickenpox, the most common symptom is a red itcy rash, which will usually start on or near the back of the neck, flat red spots will start to form and these will then become small blisters, other symptoms of chickenpox which may occur are fatigue, slight fever and loss of appetite. Once the blisters have formed a dry crust then you are no longer contagious.

Is chickenpox contagious?

Yes, it is very contagious, so therefore it is best that anyone who has chickenpox to remain incubated for 10 - 21 days, the most contagious time is the day after the rash appeared up until the point where the blisters have formed a dry crust.

Adult chickenpox

Adult form of chickenpox can be very serious, they should contact the GP straight away, the affects on adults can cause pneumonia or even death and for anyone who is pregnant having chickenpox could harm a new born baby as their immune system would be very low, other affects that chickenpox could have is miscarriage or birth defects.

What to do if you have chickenpox

If either a child or adult has chickenpox contact the GP, the GP will then prescibe suitable medication, such as calamine lotion to soothe the rash and paraceetamol to reduce temprature, however if a child has chickenpox and is not ill then you could speak to your pharmacist for advice, but still inform the doctor that that child has chickenpox.

The best thing to do if you do have chickenpox is do not scratch the blisters (easier said than done), apply the soothing lotion and take the medication to reduce any tempature and try to get plenty of rest.

There is a chickenpox vaccine available for those over the age of 13, but this is not suitable for younger kids. If you are considering the vaccine, then speak to your GP and he would be able to avise you if this is suitable for you or not.

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