How to Prevent Chicken Pox in Starting Stage
Chickenpox, also known as varicella, is a viral disease that is characterized by a classic itchy rash. The condition mostly affects children, but adults can also get infected. It is quite contagious and can spread quickly, especially in environments such as schools, daycares, or hospitals. Fortunately, there are some preventive steps that can help you protect yourself against the disease or reduce your chances of getting infected in the starting stage.
What is Chicken Pox?
Chickenpox is a viral disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is characterized by a widespread itchy rash. It is a very contagious disease and can spread easily from one person to another. The virus spreads through direct contact with the infected person’s skin rash or respiratory droplets, including coughing and sneezing. Chickenpox is more common in children but can also affect adults, particularly those who have never been infected before or have not been vaccinated.
How to Know If You Have Chicken Pox?
The symptoms of chickenpox usually start to appear about 10 to 21 days after exposure to the virus. The first symptom is usually fever, followed by the appearance of itchy red blisters or spots all over the body. These blisters will then fill with fluid and eventually burst and crust over. Other symptoms may include headache, loss of appetite, and fatigue.
How to Prevent Chicken Pox?
- Get Vaccinated: Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent chickenpox. The varicella vaccine is a safe and effective vaccine that provides protection against the virus. It is recommended for all children and adults who have not had chickenpox before.
- Avoid Contact with Infected People: To avoid the spread of chickenpox, it is essential to avoid contact with people who are infected. Stay away from people who have chickenpox until they have recovered completely.
- Maintain Good Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after coming into contact with someone who has chickenpox, or after touching surfaces that may be contaminated with the virus.
- Avoid Close Contact with Infected People: Avoid close contact with people who have chickenpox, such as hugging or kissing them.
- Stay at Home if Infected: If you have chickenpox, it is essential to stay at home until all the blisters have crusted over and you do not have a fever anymore. Avoid contact with vulnerable populations like pregnant women, infants, and people with weakened immune systems.
What Are the Complications of Chicken Pox?
While chickenpox is usually a mild disease, it can lead to some complications in some cases. The most common complications include bacterial infections, pneumonia, and encephalitis. In rare cases, chickenpox can cause severe complications like meningitis, encephalitis, or even death. Therefore, it is essential to take preventive measures to protect yourself against the disease.
What Are the Treatment Options for Chicken Pox?
There is no specific treatment for chickenpox, and the virus will usually run its course over two to three weeks. However, there are some available treatments that can help alleviate the symptoms and prevent secondary bacterial infections. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen can help relieve fever and pain. Antihistamines can help reduce itching. In severe cases, antiviral medications may be prescribed by a doctor.
Conclusion
Chickenpox is a viral disease that can spread easily from person to person. While the disease is usually mild, it can lead to some severe complications in some cases. Fortunately, there are some preventive measures that can help protect you against chickenpox. These preventive measures include vaccination, avoiding contact with infected people, maintaining good hygiene, and staying at home if you are infected. It is essential to take preventive measures to protect yourself and others against the virus.
Common Questions and their Answers
- Can adults get chickenpox? Yes, adults can get chickenpox. Once you’ve had chickenpox, your body will develop immunity to the virus, and you are unlikely to get it again.
- Can chickenpox be prevented? Chickenpox can be prevented by getting vaccinated, avoiding contact with infected people, maintaining good hygiene, and staying at home if you are infected.
- How contagious is chickenpox? Chickenpox is highly contagious. It can spread through direct contact with an infected person or by breathing in air that has been contaminated with the virus.
- Can you get chickenpox twice? It is uncommon, but it is possible to get chickenpox more than once in rare cases. However, if you have had chickenpox before, your body will develop immunity to the virus, which reduces your risk of getting it again.
- When should you see a doctor for chickenpox? If you suspect you or your child has chickenpox or has been exposed to chickenpox, it is essential to see a doctor to begin treatment as soon as possible.
References
1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Varicella (Chickenpox). Available at https://www.cdc.gov/chickenpox/index.html
2. World Health Organization. Chickenpox. Available at https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/chickenpox
3. Mayo Clinic. Chickenpox: Symptoms and Causes. Available at https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chickenpox/symptoms-causes/syc-20351282