chickenpox Chickenpox is an acute infectious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which results in systemic symptoms such as rash, papules, vesicles, and scabs. This disease is more common in children and typically resolves naturally or through self-healing at a certain stage. It is highly contagious, but loses its contagiousness after scab formation. Most patients develop antibodies after recovery, becoming immune to chickenpox, although the dormant virus in the body may later reactivate, leading to shingles. Vaccination against shingles in middle-aged and elderly individuals may reduce the risk of developing shingles later in life.

Chickenpox is an acute contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus, leading to systemic symptoms such as rash, papules, vesicles, and crusts. This disease is commonly seen in children and typically resolves naturally or through self-healing. It is highly contagious, but becomes non-infectious after crusting. Most patients develop antibodies after recovery, which protects them from further chickenpox infections, although the dormant virus can be reactivated later in life, leading to shingles. Vaccination against shingles in middle-aged and elderly individuals may reduce the risk of developing shingles in later years.

Incubation Period

After infection with the varicella-zoster virus, patients do not immediately exhibit symptoms and generally go through an incubation period of 9 to 21 days.

Prodromal Stage

Following the incubation period, patients enter a 1-2 week prodromal stage, during which the contagious phase of chickenpox occurs. Children often directly proceed to the eruptive stage, while adult patients may experience general malaise, low-grade fever, decreased appetite, and chills for 1-2 days before the rash appears.

The rash typically begins on the trunk and head, gradually spreading to the face, and finally to the limbs. It is more prevalent on the trunk, with fewer lesions on the limbs and face, exhibiting a centripetal distribution pattern. The rash initially presents as pink macules, which evolve into papules within hours, then progress to vesicles, with a red halo at the base.

The overall course of the disease lasts 1-2 weeks, during which macules, papules, vesicles, and crusts may coexist. Rashes can also appear on the mucous membranes of the mouth, throat, or external genitalia. Generally, chickenpox does not leave lasting scars.

Severe cases of chickenpox, known as malignant chickenpox, may occur in individuals with malignancies or compromised immune systems, manifesting as systemic toxicity, high fever, extensive and easily confluent vesicles, or hemorrhagic chickenpox.

During the fever phase, patients should rest in bed and minimize physical activity. Antipyretic medications such as acetaminophen can be used for high fever. Corticosteroids (which can promote viral spread) and aspirin (with the risk of Reye's syndrome) should generally be avoided. Antiviral therapy such as acyclovir may be considered for severe cases or complications. Attention to skin hygiene, minimizing scratching, and preventing secondary bacterial infections is important.

Patients may take herbal remedies such as Chiqiao Qingre Granules for Children, Shuanghuanglian Oral Liquid, or Huangqin Flower Oral Liquid.

Maintain good indoor air circulation and avoid prolonged confinement in enclosed spaces.

Cover the mouth and nose with a tissue or upper arm when coughing or sneezing.

Keep nails trimmed to reduce the risk of scratching and spreading the infection.

Frequent handwashing to prevent viral transmission.

Items contaminated by the patient's vesicles should be disinfected through methods such as sunlight exposure or boiling.

During the illness, patients can bathe, preferably using a shower, and should be careful not to pop the blisters. Use a neutral and mild bath soap. If the patient is a student, they should consider returning to school only after all chickenpox lesions have crusted over.

Do not give aspirin to children and young adults with chickenpox, as it may lead to Reye's syndrome. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen) may cause skin infections or tissue damage, and should be used by chickenpox patients only after consulting a doctor.