CHICKEN POX

CHICKEN POX

It is highly infectious disease caused by Varicella zoster virus, characterized by fever and malaise.

Agent : Varicella zoster virus

Source of infection : Cases of chicken pox

Period of infectivity : 1-2 days after appearance of rash and 4-5 days afterwards.

Environmental factors : Occurs mostly in first six months of age.

Age : Mostly occurs in children below 10 years.

Incubation period : 14-16 days.

Mode of transmission :    ·   Droplet infection

• Face to face contact
• Placental route

CINICAL FEATURES

1. Pre-eruptive stage : Mild fever, pain in back, malaise, shivering. Stage lasts for 2-3 days.
2. Eruptive stage : It comes on the day when fever starts.

DISTRIBUTION

Symmetrical, first on trunk and then on face.

Rapid evolution : Advances quickly through macular, popular and vesicular form and forms scab.

Pleomorphism : All stages of rash can be seen at a time

Fever : Fever doesn’t run high.

COMPLICATIONS

• Hemorrhage
• Pneumonia
• Encephalitis
• Cerebral atonia
• Encephalopathy

PREVENTION

Varicella zoster immunoglobin given within 72 hours of exposure has been recommended for prevention.

CONTROL

Notification

Isolation of cases for about 6 days after onset of rash.

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• admin |
• December 2, 2021