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**Q: What is Acute ‍Varicella Zoster (Chickenpox)?**



**A:** Acute Varicella Zoster,​ commonly known as chickenpox, is a​ highly contagious viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster​ virus (VZV). It typically affects children but can occur‍ at any age.



**Q: What​ are the Symptoms ⁣of⁣ Chickenpox?**



**A:** The hallmark symptom of chickenpox is a rash⁤ that progresses through different stages:



* **Macules:** Small, pink spots

* ⁤**Papules:** Raised, bumpy spots

* **Vesicles:** Blisters filled with clear‌ fluid

*​ **Crusts:** Dried blisters that eventually fall off



Other symptoms ‌may include:



* Fever

* Fatigue

* Headache

* Loss of appetite

* Itching



**Q: How is Chickenpox Spread?**



**A:** Chickenpox is primarily⁣ spread through​ contact with:



* Respiratory droplets from an infected ​person’s cough or sneeze

* ⁣Blisters or crusts from the rash



It can also‌ be spread through‍ contact with contaminated objects or surfaces.



**Q: How⁣ is Chickenpox Treated?**



**A:** Most cases of chickenpox ​resolve on their own within ⁣1-2 weeks. Treatment options may include:



* Antiviral ⁤medications​ to⁤ shorten the illness and reduce ‌the⁣ severity of symptoms

* Antihistamines to relieve‍ itching

* Calamine ‌lotion to soothe ⁢the‌ rash



**Q: How Can Chickenpox be Prevented?**



**A:** Vaccination is ‌the‍ most ‍effective way to prevent ‍chickenpox. The varicella vaccine is recommended for ⁤all ⁢children and adults who have not had the infection.



**Other Preventive Measures:**



* Avoid contact with infected individuals

* Wash hands‍ frequently

*​ Disinfect contaminated surfaces

* Cover blisters with gauze to prevent scratching



**Q: What‌ are the Complications of Chickenpox?**



**A:** In rare cases, chickenpox⁣ can lead to serious​ complications, such ​as:



* Pneumonia

* Encephalitis (brain inflammation)

* Secondary bacterial infections

* Reye’s syndrome (a life-threatening condition associated ‌with aspirin use during chickenpox)



**Important ‍Considerations:**



* Pregnant women and people with weakened‌ immune ​systems are at higher risk for severe complications.

* ⁣The virus can reactivate in adulthood as shingles (herpes zoster), causing a painful rash.

* Early diagnosis and treatment are ​crucial ‍to prevent complications.