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Virus That Causes Chicken Pox

Until 1995, chicken pox was a common childhood disease. Outbreaks and individual cases are still reported each year in all parts of the world.

  1. Varicella Zoster

    • Chicken pox is a result of exposure to the varicella zoster virus, related to the herpes virus. Varicella zoster is also a cause of shingles.

    Exposure

    • The varicella zoster virus is spread through direct contact and is contagious for up to 48 hours prior to initial appearance of symptoms. The disease spreads rapidly through schools and other public venues due to close contact with infected persons.

    Symptoms

    • The primary symptom of chicken pox is small itchy red bumps. Other symptoms may include fever, irritability and a headache.

    Complications and Risks

    • Exposure to varicella zoster during pregnancy may result in birth defects in the fetus. Pneumonia and encephalitis, swelling of the brain, have also been related to the virus.

    Vaccination

    • The chicken pox vaccine was introduced in 1995. Side effects are typically irritation at the injection site or low-grade fever.

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