Recent media reports across Kerala have highlighted a noticeable rise in chickenpox cases. Seasonal transitions—especially when the weather shifts from cooler temperatures to warmer conditions—often create an environment where viral infections spread more easily. During such periods, chickenpox cases commonly increase. Although it is generally considered a common childhood illness, chickenpox continues to create fear among the public. Much of this fear is linked not only to the disease itself but also to the many myths and misconceptions surrounding it.
Understanding the facts about chickenpox is the first step toward preventing its spread and ensuring timely treatment.
What Is Chickenpox?
Chickenpox is an easily spread infectious disease triggered by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It primarily affects children but can occur at any age. Before vaccination became widely available, chickenpox was extremely common. Today, effective vaccines have significantly reduced both the number of cases and the severity of complications.
Even after recovery from chickenpox, the virus remains in the body instead of being completely eliminated. It stays inactive in nerve tissues and can reactivate later in life as shingles, particularly when immunity weakens.
How Does Chickenpox Spread?
Chickenpox passes quickly and effortlessly from one individual to another, making it highly contagious. The virus spreads through:
Tiny respiratory droplets that are expelled into the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes
Direct contact with the fluid from chickenpox blisters
Close contact in crowded environments such as homes, schools, and daycare centers
A person with chickenpox is contagious from one to two days before the rash appears until all the blisters have dried and formed scabs. This makes early identification and isolation important to prevent outbreaks.
The incubation period ranges from 10 to 21 days, meaning symptoms may appear up to three weeks after exposure. During this period, individuals may unknowingly spread the infection.
Common Myths and Misconceptions
In many communities, chickenpox is surrounded by traditional beliefs. Some people believe the rash is a divine blessing and therefore avoid seeking medical treatment. Others think bathing should be avoided until the blisters disappear, or that lying on neem leaves can cure the illness.
While cultural practices are part of tradition, medical science clearly shows that chickenpox is a viral infection requiring proper care and monitoring. Avoiding bathing can increase the risk of secondary skin infections due to poor hygiene. Delaying medical consultation may allow complications to develop.
It is important to replace fear and myths with accurate medical knowledge.
Signs and Symptoms
Chickenpox usually begins with mild symptoms before the rash appears. These may include:
Fever
Headache
Fatigue
Body aches
Loss of appetite
Within a day or two, the characteristic rash develops.
Rash Progression
The rash typically starts on the chest, back, or face and gradually spreads to other parts of the body. It progresses through several stages:
Red spots
Raised bumps
Fluid-filled blisters
Crusting and scabbing
New lesions may continue to appear for several days, meaning a person may have spots in different stages at the same time. The blisters are often intensely itchy.
In more severe cases, lesions may also appear inside the mouth, on the palms and soles, or in the genital area. Scratching can lead to bacterial infections and scarring.
Who Is at Higher Risk?
Although chickenpox is usually mild in healthy children, certain groups are at higher risk of severe illness:
Adults who have not been infected or vaccinated
Pregnant women
Newborn babies
Individuals with weakened immune systems
People on long-term steroid therapy or undergoing cancer treatment
Adults generally experience more severe symptoms compared to children.
Possible Complications
While most cases resolve without major issues, ignoring the disease or failing to seek medical care can lead to complications such as:
Pneumonia
Brain inflammation (encephalitis)
Secondary bacterial skin infections
These complications are uncommon but can be serious, particularly in high-risk individuals.
Treatment and Home Care
There is no specific cure that immediately eliminates the virus. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing complications.
Supportive care includes:
Adequate rest
Drinking plenty of fluids
Fever-reducing medications (paracetamol; avoid aspirin in children)
Antihistamines to reduce itching
Calamine lotion to soothe the skin
Keeping fingernails trimmed short
Contrary to common belief, gentle bathing with lukewarm water is safe and helps maintain hygiene. Clean clothing and proper skin care reduce the risk of secondary infections.
In high-risk or severe cases, doctors may prescribe antiviral medications to reduce the severity and duration of illness.
Immunity After Infection
In most cases, a person who has had chickenpox once develops long-lasting immunity, making reinfection rare. Even if the virus re-enters the body, the immune system typically prevents noticeable symptoms.
However, the virus remains dormant in the body and can reactivate later as shingles.
Vaccination: The Most Effective Prevention
Vaccination is the best way to prevent chickenpox and reduce its severity.
Recommended Schedule:
For Children:
First dose: 12–16 months
Second dose: 4–6 years
For Adults (not previously infected or vaccinated):
Two doses, given one month apart
Individuals who receive both doses have a very low risk of developing chickenpox. Even if infection occurs, it is usually mild and rarely progresses to severe complications.
Vaccination also protects the community by reducing overall transmission.
When Should You Consult a Doctor?
Seek medical attention if:
The patient is an adult or pregnant woman
The person has a weakened immune system
Fever persists beyond four days
There are breathing difficulties
Severe headache, confusion, or repeated vomiting occurs
The rash becomes red, swollen, or painful
Early medical guidance ensures safe recovery and prevents complications.
Final Thoughts
Chickenpox is a contagious viral infection that should not be ignored. While most cases are mild—especially in children—misconceptions and delayed treatment can increase the risk of complications.
Awareness, proper hygiene, timely medical consultation, and vaccination are the keys to effective prevention. By understanding the disease clearly and relying on medical guidance rather than myths, families can protect themselves and their communities.
Prevention begins with knowledge—and vaccination remains the strongest defense against chickenpox.
