Caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), chickenpox used to
be a common illness among kids in the United States
(particularly among those under age 12). An itchy rash of spots
that look like blisters can appear all over the body and be
accompanied by flu-like symptoms. Chickenpox is very contagious,
so an infected child should stay home and rest until the rash is
gone. Kids can be protected from VZV by getting the chickenpox
(varicella) vaccine. The vaccine significantly reduces the
chances of getting chickenpox. Vaccinated kids who do get
chickenpox tend to have milder cases and quicker recoveries
compared to those who contract the virus and aren't immunized.
Chickenpox often starts with a fever, headache, sore throat, or
stomachache. These symptoms may last for a few days, with fever
in the 101°-102°F (38.3°-38.8°C) range. Chickenpox causes a red,
itchy skin rash that usually appears first on the abdomen or
back and face, and then spreads to almost everywhere else on the
body, including the scalp, mouth,