Chickenpox or what we usually know as varicella is a disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Chickenpox is generally known to be a disease that often occurs in children and only occurs once in a lifetime. However, there are some cases where this disease can also be suffered by adults. Even in people, the symptoms they experience tend to be more severe than in children. Just like diseases caused by viruses, chickenpox is also a disease that can heal by itself. The virus that causes chickenpox is usually spread through the air through coughs or sneezes from people infected with the virus. When exposed to this virus, a person can infect other people for 1-2 days before the rash appears and until all the blisters become scabs, generally 4-5 days. The distance between contact with the virus and the development of disease varies depending on the individual.
Causes of Chicken Pox
Chickenpox is caused by the varicella virus which can spread easily and quickly. This infection can spread through the air when the sufferer coughs or sneezes and through direct contact with mucus, saliva or fluid from the sufferer's blisters. This infection occurs two days before the rash appears until all the dry crust on the wound has disappeared. A number of conditions can cause children to be susceptible to chickenpox, including:
Never had chickenpox
Have not received the chickenpox vaccine
Newborn babies from mothers who have not been vaccinated against chickenpox
Children under 12 years old
Symptoms of Chicken Pox
Symptoms of chickenpox in children include:
Fever accompanied by body aches and headaches 1-2 days before the rash appears on the skin
The appearance of itchy red spots on the face, chest, neck and scalp
Decreased appetite
Respiratory disorders
If the spots are scratched by the child, they will leave scars.
How to Treat Symptoms of Chicken Pox
Chickenpox can usually go away on its own if the child's immunity is in good condition. There is no specific treatment for children affected by chickenpox. Children who have chicken pox can undergo treatment at home by their parents to relieve itchy skin or other disturbing symptoms. It must be remembered, never allow a child who has chickenpox to scratch the rash or bubbles that appear, because this can cause permanent scars and skin infections. Ways to treat the symptoms of chickenpox in children include:
Give your child enough sleep
Provide nutritious food and take vitamins
Take a shower with warm water
Use cream or moisturizer after bathing to reduce itching
Prevention of Chicken Pox in Children
Give children the chickenpox vaccine
Avoid children's contact with people who have chickenpox
If your child experiences symptoms of chickenpox, immediately consult a pediatrician so he can get the right care and treatment. Healthy greetings