Chickenpox is a highly contagious disease that mainly affects children. Occasionally it can affect adults as well. With chickenpox, a rash will appear on the body about 48 hours after exposure. The rash comes in the form of blisters that burst and then scab over.
The itchy rash of spots that look like blisters can appear anywhere on the body and will most often be accompanied by flu-like symptoms. While the symptoms can go away without treatment, it is important to remember that the infection is very contagious and the child should remain home until symptoms are gone and blisters have healed.
Chickenpoxis spread easily from person to person. It is usually spread through the respiratory tract. Chickenpox can also be spread through the air. Meaning it is is possible to contract the disease when someone sneezes or coughs. Chickenpoxis very common in children and for the most part, only causes very mild illnesses. Once you have chickenpox, you typically are immune to it for the rest of your life.
Chickenpox is caused by the varicella zoster virus. The same virus can cause chickenpox along with shingles. Which is why shingles after an episode of chickenpox is not uncommon.
The incubation period for chickenpox is typically 2 to 3 weeks. A person with chickenpox becomes contagious 1 to 2 days before they actually show signs of the chickenpox. A person will remain contagious while uncrusted blisters are present.
Once you have the chickenpox, the virus remains in your body for the rest of your life, but is kept in check by your immune system.
Symptoms of chickenpox include a rash that is characterized by open blisters, fever, muscle aches, and fatigue. Because chickenpox symptoms tend to mirror flu symptoms, the best indicator of chickenpox is the appearance of blisters and an itchy rash.
Treatment for chickenpox is fairly simple. Keep the child home until the the blisters are crusted over completely and the fever is gone. Try to prevent the child from scratching at the blisters as that can lead to infection. Also apply calamine lotion to the affected areas in addition to soaking in an oatmeal bath as needed
Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.