What is chickenpox? Chickenpox (varicella) is a common illness
that causes an itchy rash and red spots or blisters (pox) all
over the body. It is most common in children, but most people
will get chickenpox at some point in their lives if they have
not had the chickenpox vaccine. Chickenpox can cause problems
for pregnant women, newborns, teens and adults, and people who
have immune system problems that make it hard for the body to
fight infection. Chickenpox usually isn't a serious health
problem in healthy children. But a child with chickenpox needs
to stay home from school. And you may need to miss work in order
to care for your child. After you have had chickenpox, you are
not likely to get it again. But the virus stays in your body
long after you get over the illness. If the virus becomes active
again, it can cause a painful viral infection called shingles.
What causes chickenpox, and how is it spread? Chickenpox is
caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It can spread easily. You
can get it from an infect