>>What is Chicken Pox?
Common childhood disease
Infection mild in children
Serious in infants/ adults
Chances of recurrence present
World-wide incidence
>>Causes
Caused by virus, Varicella-Zoster
Spreads through air & contact
Contagious till blisters disappear
>>Symptoms
Rashes all over body
Fever
Blisters
Uncontrollable itching
Pneumonia
Brain damage in severe cases
>>Treatment
Take luke-warm baths
Avoid aspirin
Trim fingernails to avoid skin damage
Drink cold fluids
Acyclovir effectively treats chicken pox
Fever treated with Acetaminophen/ibuprofen
Consult a GP /child specialist if:
a. Rashes involve eyes
b. Fever is 103 °F or more
c. Infection persists
>> Prevention
Infected person should remain home-bound
Vaccination
First dose given between 12-18 months
Vaccination should not be given to:
a. Those allergic to gelatin, neomycin
b. Pregnant women
c. The immuno-compromised
