Chickenpox

Chickenpox is an infectious disease eruptive and immunizing. It usually occurs between 2 and 10 years. The incubation period (period between contamination and the first symptoms) is about 15 days, and disease duration is of 12-15 days.

The rash occurs on all  the body, in spurts, fever after a more or less higher. These are small pink buttons, which turn into small vesicles (blisters). They pierce, and then dry, leaving a crust that will disappear in about ten days. In adults or adolescents, the disease can be more severe.

The disease is caused by a virus that is highly contagious, often in the form of epidemics generally occurring in winter or spring.

 

It is important to prevent the child from scratching to avoid any scars. Antihistamines may be prescribed to relieve itching. In addition, vesicles will be disinfected daily with an antiseptic prescribed by the doctor. And drugs against fever may also be given.

Complications are rare; these are mainly superinfection due to scratching. Complications affecting the nervous system are possible, as an impairment of the cerebellum. This is usually a benign complication.