Chickenpox

Description

Chickenpox, caused by the varicella-zoster virus, is a highly contagious infectious disease that mainly affects children, although it can also occur in adults who have not previously been exposed to the virus. It typically presents as a rash characterised by itchy blisters that appear on the trunk, limbs, scalp and inside the mouth. If scratched, these blisters can become infected and leave scars.

Causes

The varicella-zoster virus is mainly transmitted through direct contact with the skin lesions of an infected person or via respiratory droplets emitted when coughing or sneezing. Once the virus enters the body, it replicates and begins to spread, leading to the appearance of the characteristic blisters.

Symptoms

Symptoms generally begin with mild fever, headache, and malaise, followed by the appearance of an itchy rash. The blisters initially develop as red spots that quickly turn into small fluid-filled blisters. After a few days, the blisters rupture and form a scab. Itching is intense, and the risk of secondary infection increases if the lesions are scratched.

Diagnosis

Chickenpox is usually diagnosed on the basis of a clinical examination of the skin lesions and a history of exposure to the virus. In doubtful cases, laboratory tests, such as PCR or viral culture, can be carried out to confirm the presence of the varicella-zoster virus.

Treatment

Treatment of chickenpox focuses on mitigating symptoms and preventing complications. The use of aluminum chloride gel (e.g., Dermasana from MOST Skincare) is effective in drying blisters, relieving itching and accelerating healing. Oral antihistamines may be prescribed to reduce itching, while in selected cases, especially in adults or at-risk patients, antivirals such as acyclovir may be considered.

Prevention

Treatment of chickenpox focuses on mitigating symptoms and preventing complications. The use of aluminum chloride gel is effective in drying blisters, relieving itching and accelerating healing. Oral antihistamines may be prescribed to reduce itching, while in selected cases, especially in adults or at-risk patients, antivirals such as acyclovir may be considered.