Chickenpox Vaccination in India

Chickenpox – An Overview
Chickenpox is a viral skin infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Most people regard chickenpox as a mild disease, but it is highly contagious and can spread quickly. Therefore, it is better to get vaccinated to prevent possible complications. Chickenpox may appear 10 to 21 days after contracting the viral infection and usually lasts for about ten days.

Chickenpox Causes
Chickenpox is a contagious infection that can be spread by the patient’s coughing and sneezing, direct contact with the blisters, coming into contact with the patient’s saliva, or by working or attending a school or childcare facility where there are infected children.

Chickenpox can be seriously fatal in people suffering from bacterial infections, dehydration, pneumonia, or Reye’s syndrome. It can affect newborn babies, children with asthma, adults, pregnant women who have never had the disease, or people with an impaired immune system due to other medications.

Chickenpox Symptoms
The common signs of chickenpox are as follows:

• Blisters
• Fever
• Headache
• Itchy rashes
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue and a drowsy feeling

Women exposed to chickenpox during pregnancy may bear children with birth defects like:

• Small head size
• Eye problems
• Intellectual disabilities

Chickenpox Diagnosis

Doctors may diagnose chickenpox based on the symptoms. However, if there is any unexplained rash or frequent headaches and fever, the doctor may confirm it by conducting blood tests, cultures, or lesion tests.

Chickenpox Treatment
In most cases, medical treatment for chickenpox is not required, and doctors may advise waiting until the viral infection is completely cured. To relieve itching, doctors may prescribe antihistamines or topical ointments. Infected children are advised not to attend school or daycare to prevent the spread of the virus, while adults are advised to stay home.

High-risk patients with severe complications may be prescribed antiviral drugs, which reduce the severity of the symptoms and help them heal faster.

Chickenpox Prevention
The chickenpox vaccine prevents chickenpox in 90% of children who receive it. The shot should be given when your child is between 12 and 15 months of age. A booster is given between 4 and 6 years of age.