Varicella, commonly known to Americans as Chickenpox, is one of
the most prevalent infectious diseases in children. It is a highly contagious
disease that could occur when a person is exposed to the varicella-zoster
virus, eventually causing the trademark itchy, red blisters to appear on the
skin after the 14 to 16 day incubation period.
Most cases of chickenpox only require rest at home, as this
self-limiting ailment will resolve itself within ten to fourteen days after the
blisters first manifest. In addition, many home remedies, such as oat baths and
calamine lotions, can make the itching more manageable for your children.
However, while most cases of chickenpox are more of an annoyance than a serious
disease, a prolonged chickenpox infection can give rise to several
complications: bacterial infections, pneumonia, shingles, and others.
With this in mind, a quick trip to your child's pediatrician for a
chickenpox vaccination is the best way to prevent chickenpox, or to reduce its
unpleasant symptoms. Aside from the benefit of significantly reducing the
chances of children contracting the disease, the vaccination might be important
in school, as most Colorado schools now require proof of a chickenpox
vaccination before admitting a student.
Chickenpox vaccines are given in two doses; the first when a child is
12-15 months, and the second usually given anytime from 3 months after the
first dose, to 6 years old.
http://children.webmd.com/vaccines/chickenpox-varicella-vaccine
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