REPORT THIS DISEASE TO COBB & DOUGLAS PUBLIC HEALTH IMMEDIATELY
AT: 770-514-2432

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WHAT IS IT?

Varicella (Chickenpox) is a very contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It spreads easily from infected people to others who have never had chickenpox or received the chickenpox vaccine. Chickenpox spreads in the air through coughing or sneezing. It can also be spread by touching or breathing in the virus particles that come from chickenpox blisters.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

  • Blister-like rash
  • Itching
  • Tiredness
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Loss of appetite

Blisters can cover the whole body including inside the mouth, eyelids, and genital area. It generally begins 14 to 16 after being infected. It usually lasts for 5 to 10 days. A person is contagious from one to two days before the rash appears until all blisters have formed scabs. Pregnant women, adults, babies, and people with weakened immune systems are at risk for serious complications.

Serious complications are:

  • Dehydration
  • Pneumonia
  • Bleeding problems
  • Blood stream infections (sepsis)