Chickenpox is one of the most contagious viral infections in the United States. It is a viral disease. This disease is common in children. However, it can also affect adults. Common chickenpox signs and symptoms include itchiness and blisters on the skin. Vaccination against Chickenpox is one of the best ways to prevent infections.
Also, if someone recovers from Chickenpox, they develop immunity against the disease. Thus, the chickenpox virus is most prevalent in people who have no history of infection or have not been vaccinated against Chickenpox.
The gestation period after infection is about 16 days. In America, nearly 4 million chickenpox cases are reported every year. Children below the age of 4 years are the most affected population. Notably, you can get Chickenpox twice. However, this phenomenon is not usual.
Chickenpox is more prevalent among children, but it's fatality rate is much higher in adults. 90% of all Chickenpox cases in the United States affect children. In healthy children, Chickenpox usually develops mildly. Thus, you may not know when your child contracts the virus. Children should only be vaccinated against Chickenpox from 12 months. Those who have no history of chickenpox infection require two doses of the vaccine. The second dose can be administered when the kid is between 4-6 years.
However, if there is an infection before the first birthday, the child does not need vaccination. After infection, the body develops permanent immunity against the virus. That is why vaccination after the illness is not necessary. Since children under two years are the most likely group to get the virus, it is crucial to maintain good health for your children. The fatality rate of this virus among children between ages 1-14 is 1 in every 100,000 children. The mortality rate increases to 6 per 100,000 cases in children between 14-19 years.
The symptoms of Chickenpox in adults are no different from what kids experience. However, the severity of these symptoms increases in adults. According to CDC’s data, there are 21 deaths in 100,000 cases of Chickenpox in adults. Those at risk are the adults who have no history of infection or who have never been vaccinated.
Besides, immunocompromised adults are also at a very high risk of developing severe symptoms after contracting Chickenpox. Unfortunately, vaccination against Chickenpox is not approved for the following groups of high-risk adults;
It is possible to determine whether you have a history of Chickenpox infection through a blood test. Thus, women planning to get pregnant can consult their doctors and know whether they need to vaccinate or not. Children born by unvaccinated parents or those without a history of infection are at a higher risk of contracting the virus.
Treatment of Chickenpox can be effectively done using antiviral drugs. Specifically, the effectiveness of these drugs is high if it is started less than 24 hours after the itchiness and blisters on the skin start.
Drinking a lot of water can also help to reduce the severity of the virus. Water helps to keep the body hydrated. Treating the symptoms is another recommended way to treat Chickenpox. For example, some pain killers can be useful in helping reduce any pain that occurs.
The high fever, which is common during Chickenpox infection, can be managed using gels and cooling oil. More so,taking something to control body itchiness. However, pharmacists' and doctors’ recommendations should be adhered to when taking any medication.
Different Chickenpox’s symptoms may need additional and diverse treatment mechanisms. These symptoms include;
If you have any of these symptoms, please consult your doctor quickly on the best treatment method. Notably, getting a vaccine is another effective way to control or avoid Chickenpox.
