সংজ্ঞা
Chickenpox is a viral infection. It is highly contagious. It creates a widespread, itchy rash. The infection can also cause serious complications in some people. Chickenpox is more dangerous for adults and newborns. It is also a danger for people with suppressed immune systems.
কারণসমূহ
Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It spreads from person to person via:
- Airborne droplets of moisture containing the VZV virus
- Direct contact with fluid from a chickenpox rash
It is contagious 1-2 days before the rash erupts. It remains contagious until all of the blisters have crusted. This takes five days. It is most contagious just after the rash has broken out.
A pregnant mother can transmit the virus to a fetus.
ঝুঁকির কারণ
Factors that increase your chance of getting chickenpox include:
- Close contact with an infected person, unless you have been vaccinated, or have already had chickenpox
- Age: less than three years old, with peak incidence between 5-9 years old
- Immune-deficient state, such as having leukemia, an organ transplant, high-dose steroid, or HIV
- ক্যান্সার
- গর্ভাবস্থা
- Time of year (late winter, early spring)
লক্ষণ
Symptoms break out about 10-21 days after contact. They are more severe in adults than they are in children.
প্রাথমিক লক্ষণগুলির মধ্যে রয়েছে:
- Mild headache
- Moderate fever
- কাশি
- গলা ব্যথা
- Severe itch
- Lack of appetite
- General feeling of malaise
- Some children complain of abdominal pain
The rash appears within 1-2 days after the first symptoms. The rash will:
- Consist at first of small, flat, red spots:
- Spots become raised and form a round, intensely itchy, fluid-filled blister
- Blisters develop in clusters, with new clusters forming over 5-6 days
- Usually develop into crops on the skin above the waist, including the scalp
- May also appear on the eyelids, in the mouth, upper airway, voice box, or on the genitals
- Typically crusts over by day six or seven and disappears within three weeks
রোগ নির্ণয়
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Diagnosis is usually based on the rash and your age. Blood and lab tests to identify the virus are rarely needed.
চিকিৎসা
Chickenpox is mild in most people. It will naturally run its course. In these cases, treatment focuses on relieving the symptoms.
To Reduce Itching
- Wet compresses on the skin
- Nonprescription anti-itch creams or lotions
- Oatmeal baths
- Oral antihistamines such as Benadryl
- বিঃদ্রঃ: বর্তমান বা সাম্প্রতিক ভাইরাল সংক্রমণে শিশু বা কিশোরদের জন্য অ্যাসপিরিন সুপারিশ করা হয় না। রেই'স সিনড্রোমের ঝুঁকির কারণে এটি হয়। আপনার ডাক্তারকে জিজ্ঞাসা করুন যে অন্যান্য ওষুধগুলি আপনার সন্তানের জন্য নিরাপদ।
অ্যান্টিবায়োটিক
Antibiotics cannot cure infections caused by a virus. They may be given if the rash becomes infected with bacteria.
Antiviral Medication
The course, severity, and duration of the infection may be reduced by antiviral medications, such as:
- Acyclovir
- Valacyclovir
- Famciclovir
They are often used in:
- Adolescents, adults, and individuals with compromised immune systems
- Individuals with chronic skin or lung diseases, and those taking aspirin or steroids
Special Needs
Varicella-zoster immune globulin is often given immediately after exposure. It is reserved for newborns and people with weak immune systems.
প্রতিরোধ
Avoid contact with anyone who has chickenpox. This is very important if you have not been vaccinated against the infection.
Vaccination in Children
The varicella vaccine, or a combination vaccine called MMRV, is recommended for most children. MMRV protects against measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella.
There is a “catch-up” schedule if your child has missed the routine injections.
Vaccination in Adults
Adults who have never had chickenpox or received the varicella vaccine should be vaccinated.
Vaccination After Exposure
If you or your child has not been vaccinated, but are exposed to chickenpox, a vaccine given right away may help lessen the severity of the infection, or prevent the infection.