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Chickenpox is an extremely contagious disease that is caused as a result of a viral infection by varicella zoster. The infection generally begins with the appearance of spots on the body. These spots then turn into itchy raw pockmarks or sores that if not scratched heal without scarring. While this rash is the main symptom it may also be accompanied by or preceded by other symptoms like fever, loss of appetite and abdominal pain, mild headaches, uneasiness or discomfort and a dry cough. The disease is rarely fatal or a cause for complications. It is common during childhood but can also afflict adults who have not already suffered a childhood infection and is a lot more serious for adults. Individuals with a suppressed immune system and pregnant women are at a higher risk of severe complications.
Following a primary infection it is unlikely that you will need to worry, as a primary infection generally offers lifelong immunity from further episodes. If you have never suffered from the disease or are worried about your children who have likewise not been infected, there are protective measures that you can take for preventing chickenpox. The disease can be contracted quite easily from another infected individual through aerosolized droplets from the infected's nasopharynx that are dispersed through sneezing or coughing or through any kind of direct contact with the rash. To prevent chickenpox avoid coming in close contact with or being in close confines with the infected. Schools, child care facilities and families are some locations where the disease can spread quickly due to the close contact and proximity. Simple measures of avoidance are however not a guarantee against infection since an infected person can transmit the virus even forty eight hours before the appearance of the rash. The disease remains contagious until all the sores crust over.
The only effective measure to prevent chickenpox for someone who has never been exposed to chickenpox is to get vaccinated. Vaccination against the virus is extremely effective and is very safe with only minor side effects like soreness or swelling at the site of the shot. In rare cases where the vaccine does not provide complete protection it is still beneficial as it significantly reduces the severity of infection. The dosage varies depending on age, with small children, older children and adults requiring different dosages. Your health care provider can administer the vaccine and will inform you about the dosage.
Keep in mind that the vaccine can not be given to pregnant women, someone with a weakened immune system or on immune-suppressing medications and individuals allergic to the antibiotic neomycin or gelatin. Consult with your doctor if you are unsure about the need for vaccination or if considering conceiving a child.
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