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May 22, 2013
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Chickenpox

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Chickenpox Overview

Chickenpox, also known as varicella, is a highly contagious and self-limited infection that most commonly affects children between 5-10 years of age. The disease has a worldwide distribution and is reported throughout the year in regions of temperate climate. The peak incidence is generally during the months of March through May. Lifelong immunity for chickenpox generally follows the disease. If the patient's immune system does not totally clear the body of the virus, it may retreat to skin sensory nerve cell bodies where it is protected from the patient's immune system. The disease shingles (also known as "zoster") represents release of these viruses down the length of the skin nerve fiber and produces a characteristic painful rash. Shingles is most commonly a disease of adults.

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Chickenpox - Treatment

The eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:

What was the treatment for your chicken pox?

Chickenpox Prevention

Chickenpox (varicella) is a common contagious illness caused by a type of herpes virus. Many states require that children entering day care and school have the vaccine unless they show proof of immunity (doctor's diagnosis or blood test results).

The vaccine works well and is recommended for:

  • All healthy children 12 months of age and older who have not had chickenpox. It is given in 2 doses: the first at 12 to 15 months and the second at 4 to 6 years.

SOURCE: Healthwise

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Read What Your Physician is Reading on Medscape

Varicella »

Varicella, commonly known in the United States as chickenpox, is caused by the varicella-zoster virus.

Read More on Medscape Reference »


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