Chickenpox Flashcards
What causes chickenpox?
Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus.
How is chickenpox transmitted?
It is transmitted via direct contact with chickenpox spots or respiratory droplets.
Can chickenpox be transmitted to a baby or fetus?
Yes, chickenpox can be transmitted to a fetus or newborn.
What is the incubation period for chickenpox?
The incubation period is 1-3 weeks.
When is a person with chickenpox infectious?
A person is infectious approximately 24 hours before the rash appears and until all lesions crust over (around 5 days after rash onset).
At what ageis chickenpox most common?
:Chickenpox is predominantly a childhood disease, with the highest incidence before 10 years of age.
What percentage of adults have chickenpox antibodies?
More than 90% of adults have chickenpox antibodies.
What are the prodromal symptoms of chickenpox?
Fever, aches, headache, and loss of appetite (flu-like symptoms) a few days before the rash.
How does the chickenpox rash appear?
Spots appear in crops, usually red (but can be pink or brown depending on skin color), and develop into small, itchy blisters
How severe is chickenpox?
Chickenpox is usually self-limiting and tends to have milder symptoms in children.
What are the possible complications of chickenpox in children?
Secondary bacterial infections and neurological conditions can occur in children.
What is the most common complication of chickenpox in adults?
Pneumonia is the most common complication in adults.
Who is most vulnerable if infected with chicken pox?
.immunocompromised
.pregnant
.neonates (underlying health conditions)
How can itching from chickenpox be managed?
Use sedating antihistamines like chlorphenamine (Piriton®) for children 1 year+ (usually at night).
What type of creams or gels can soothe itchy spots?
Emollients like aqueous calamine cream, Virasoothe® (glycerine for 6 months+), and crotamiton (Eurax® for 3 years+) are recommended.
what are some practical measures that can help manage itching with chickenpox ? (6)
- Avoid scratching by Cutting fingernails short
- Wear mittens
- Loose, smooth, cotton clothing, Avoid extra layers
- Bathe in cool water, pat skin dry – Epsom salts or oatmeal
- Fluid (try ice lollies etc)
- Rest
Who is eligible for the chickenpox vaccine on the NHS?
The vaccine is available on the NHS for high-risk individuals.
What type of vaccine is the chickenpox vaccine?
It is a live vaccine.
How much does the private chickenpox vaccine cost?
The vaccine costs between £100-200.
What virus causes shingles?
Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox.
Where does the varicella-zoster virus persist in the body after chickenpox?
The virus persists in the sensory nerve root ganglia.
What triggers the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus causing shingles?
Shingles can be triggered by factors such as immunocompromised states or stress.
What are the main symptoms of shingles?
Shingles causes a rash and pain in a local, band-like area along the affected nerve.
How common is it for someone to get shingles?
About 1 in 5 people will have shingles at some point in their lives.
