Chickenpox or varicella is a highly contagious infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) that commonly affects the children and generally the unvaccinated population or those who have not had the disease before. Chickenpox can be life-threatening in those who have a weaker immune system in babies and pregnant women. Vaccination against chickenpox is highly recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The first vaccine against chickenpox was approved in 1995, and since then, people who have been vaccinated have reported minimal complications from the disease.
Chickenpox symptoms and stages
The main symptom of chickenpox is represented by an itchy rash that can be found anywhere on the body. This infection happens in 3 stages, as follows:
- Stage 1: small spots or papules can be found anywhere on the body and can spread. They are generally pink, red, or even darker, depending on the skin color.
- Stage 2: the spots from stage 1 turn into blisters that are itchy and can burst if scratched.
- Stage 3: the blisters from stage 2 turn into scabs that can ooze liquid or be flaky.