Chicken pox is a mild viral disease especially in children caused by the exposure to the Varcella Zoster virus (VZV) characterised by fever and blisters over various body parts. Child is slightly grumpy with decrease in appetite and slightly more irritable than usual. It is a contagious disease which spreads from 1 person to other through airborne transmission. One of the significant things about Chicken pox is that in adults it carries more complications as compared to in children. One tends to spread the virus before the onset of rash, therefore it becomes difficult to curtail the transmission. As with other vaccines, vaccination against Chicken pox doesn't guarantee 100% protection. 3% of kids may still get the disease but it becomes milder than usual. It is given in 2 doses at 15 months and booster at 4.5 years and this vaccine is also available in combination form with MMR vaccine. So ensuring that your child is vaccinated at the earliest is of utmost importance.
FAQ's
Q. What causes chicken pox in children?
Ans.Chicken pox is caused by the Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV). It spreads easily through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Direct contact with the fluid from blisters can also transmit the infection. It mainly affects children but can occur in adults too.
Q. How does chicken pox spread from one person to another?
Ans.Chicken pox spreads through airborne transmission when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also spread through direct contact with the blisters’ fluid. The person is contagious even before the rash appears, making it difficult to prevent early transmission among family or classmates.
Q. What are the common symptoms of chicken pox?
Ans.The main symptoms include fever, tiredness, irritability, loss of appetite, and small red itchy blisters appearing all over the body. The blisters later crust over. The rash usually starts on the chest or face and then spreads to other body parts within a few days.
Q. How long does chicken pox usually last?
Ans.Chicken pox symptoms generally last for 7–10 days. The blisters appear in waves and then dry out. Children usually recover completely, though itching and fatigue may persist for a few more days. Adults may experience longer recovery and higher chances of complications.
Q. Is chicken pox more dangerous in adults than children?
Ans.Yes, chicken pox tends to be milder in children but can cause serious complications in adults, such as pneumonia, skin infections, or brain inflammation. Adults may also experience more severe rashes and longer recovery periods, making vaccination essential for long-term protection.
Q. How can chicken pox be prevented?
Ans.The best prevention is vaccination. The chicken pox vaccine is given in two doses—first at 15 months and a booster at 4.5 years. Maintaining good hygiene, isolating infected individuals, and avoiding contact with unvaccinated people can also reduce the risk of spreading.
Q. Does vaccination guarantee complete protection from chicken pox?
Ans.No vaccine offers 100% protection. Around 3% of vaccinated children may still get chicken pox, but their symptoms are usually mild and short-lived. Vaccination greatly reduces the chances of severe infection, complications, and further transmission to other family members or classmates.
Q. Can chicken pox occur after vaccination?
Ans.Yes, though rare, vaccinated children can still get chicken pox. However, the disease is typically very mild, with fewer blisters and quicker recovery. This is known as “breakthrough varicella,” and it shows how vaccination still helps by reducing the illness’s intensity.
Q. What should parents do if their child develops chicken pox?
Ans.Parents should keep the child at home, ensure plenty of rest, and give fluids. To relieve itching, use calamine lotion or prescribed medicines. Avoid scratching the blisters. Contact a doctor if the fever is high or the rashes look infected or severe.
Q. Why is early vaccination against chicken pox important?
Ans.Early vaccination protects children before they’re exposed to the virus, preventing discomfort and reducing the risk of complications. It also helps stop community spread. Since the virus is highly contagious, timely vaccination ensures both individual safety and wider public health protection.
