“Chickenpox: Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention Guide”
Overview - Chickenpox (varicella) is a highly contagious viral illness caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), a member of the herpesvirus family. It most commonly affects children but can occur at any age. Following initial infection, VZV establishes latency in sensory nerve ganglia and can reactivate years later as herpes zoster (shingles). 1. Causes Pathogen : Varicella-zoster virus (VZV), an enveloped DNA virus in the Herpesviridae family. VZV has two clinical manifestations: Primary infection → Chickenpox (varicella) Reactivation → Shingles (herpes zoster) Transmission Routes : Respiratory Droplets and Aerosols : Infectious droplets expelled when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Direct Contact with Lesions : Fluid from vesicles contains high viral titers; touching or scratching active lesions can transmit VZV. Airborne Spread : Virus can remain suspended in air for a...