Chickenpox is a highly communicable disease caused by the Varicella virus, a member of the herpes virus family.
spread
Chickenpox is common in the United States. Virtually everyone who is not vaccinated acquires chickenpox by adulthood. Cases are expected to decline as vaccine coverage levels increase.
incubation
ten to twenty–one days
symptoms
low grade fever, loss of appetite and decreased activity
communicability
one to two days before the onset of rash
prevention
A vaccine to protect children against chickenpox was first licensed in March 1995. It has been recommended for persons over 12 months of age.
treatment
In 1992, Acyclovir was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for treatment of chickenpox in healthy children.
