Chickenpox in Children: Symptoms, Treatment & Vaccine Guide

Chickenpox is caused by the varicella virus, which is a highly contagious virus also responsible for causing shingles. It spreads through direct contact with the chickenpox blisters and can be transmitted by inhaling respiratory droplets from an infected person's coughs or sneezes, as well as through sharing personal items with someone who has the virus. Chickenpox is most commonly found in children and tends to be more prevalent during colder weather. However, it can also affect adults with weakened immune systems, in which cases, the symptoms are typically more severe than in children. Nevertheless, chickenpox can be effectively prevented through vaccination.

After the virus enters the body, symptoms typically appear within 10 to 21 days. These symptoms include fever, headache, body aches, fatigue, itching, and the appearance of red spots that eventually develop into fluid-filled blisters across the body. The blisters cause itching, and they progress from clear blisters to fluid-filled pustules. Eventually, these blisters scab over and gradually fall off on their own.

Typically, chickenpox heals without leaving scars, although where a bacterial infection occurs as a complication, the blisters can become pus-filled and lead to scarring. After recovering from chickenpox, there is a possibility of developing shingles later in life.

Chickenpox is usually spread when a child comes into close contact with an infected person or is in a crowded environment.

The doctor will diagnose chickenpox by conducting a physical examination. If the symptoms are not clear, the doctor may also consider a blood test to check for immunity levels against the virus.

• Get lots of rest and drink plenty of water.
• Bathe regularly to keep the body clean.
• Keep nails trimmed short to avoid scratching and picking at the chickenpox blisters.
• Use medications like calamine lotion to help relieve itching.
• Maintain cleanliness of personal items and surroundings to reduce the risk of infection.

A study conducted in Japan found that vaccination can prevent chickenpox in 70-85% of cases for up to 20 years and can prevent severe cases of chickenpox in over 95% of individuals. 

In Thailand, there are both single vaccines (Varicella Zoster Virus: VZV), which specifically protect against chickenpox, and combination vaccines, which protect against measles, mumps, rubella, and chickenpox in a single shot.

• Children aged 1 year and older should receive 2 doses of the vaccine. The first dose can be given from 1 year of age, with the second dose administered 6 months after the first.
• Individuals who have never had chickenpox or children under 12 years old should receive 2 doses of the vaccine, with at least a 3-month interval between doses.
• Children aged 13 years and older should receive 2 doses of the vaccine, with at least a 1-month interval between doses.
• Caregivers of individuals with chickenpox should also consider vaccination.

• Individuals with a history of chickenpox, immune deficiencies, tuberculosis, or cancer should inform their doctor before receiving the vaccine.
• If you have a fever or are acutely ill, postpone your vaccination appointment. You should then wait until 7 days after recovery before getting vaccinated.

Remarks:

• The chickenpox vaccine can be administered at any time of the year and can be given alongside other vaccines.
• Always undergo a medical examination by a doctor before receiving any vaccine.

• Patients taking immunosuppressive medications.
• Patients with immune deficiencies.
• Patients who have recently received a blood transfusion.

• Reduces the chance of contracting the varicella virus.
• Lowers the risk of developing shingles.

• Rest and observe for any adverse reactions for about 15 minutes to prevent fainting.
• If you feel dizzy, inform the doctor immediately.
• If there is pain or swelling at the injection site, apply ice to reduce discomfort.
• A rash similar to chickenpox may appear around the injection site but will typically resolve on its own.

Common side effects:

• Low-grade fever
• Arm pain
• Swelling or bruising at the injection site
• Mild rash

Severe side effects:

• Severe allergic reaction
• Widespread rash
• Easy bruising or bleeding
• Seizures
• Eye strain 
• Encephalitis (brain inflammation)

Those who experience a severe allergic reaction or any other symptoms not listed above should seek medical attention immediately.

Chickenpox can recur if you come into contact with someone who has the disease, but the chances of this happening are low. If reinfection occurs, the symptoms and severity will typically be milder than the first time, such as no fever and fewer rashes. Similarly, individuals who have never had chickenpox but have been vaccinated can still contract the disease, but their symptoms are usually mild as well.