Chickenpox: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Chickenpox, also known as varicella, is a highly contagious viral infection that is most common in children but can affect people of all ages. The disease is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is part of the herpes virus family. Transmission and Symptoms: The virus is transmitted through contact with fluid from the blisters that appear on the skin of infected individuals or through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing. The virus can also be spread by touching contaminated surfaces or objects. Symptoms typically begin 10 to 21 days after exposure to the virus and include fever, headache, and a general feeling of malaise. A few days later, a rash appears on the skin, which progresses from small, red bumps to fluid-filled blisters that eventually scab over and heal. The rash usually starts on the face, scalp, and trunk and then spreads to other parts of the body. Treatment: There is no cure for chickenpox, but the symptoms can be managed with antihistamines to rel...