Chickenpox, also known as varicella, is a highly contagious viral infection that causes an itchy rash and fluid-filled blisters. It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). The virus is spread from person to person through direct contact with the rash or through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms of chickenpox include an itchy rash with fluid-filled blisters, fever, headache, fatigue, and loss of appetite. The disease typically lasts for 7-10 days, although the rash and blisters may take up to 2-4 weeks to heal completely. There is a vaccine available for chickenpox, which is recommended for all children and adults who have not had chickenpox or the vaccine. Complications of chickenpox can include bacterial skin infections, pneumonia, encephalitis, and, in rare cases, severe complications such as sepsis and meningitis. Infected individuals should stay home until all the blisters have crusted over to prevent the virus from spreading.
