Tackling Chickenpox

Chickenpox,

also known as varicella, is a contagious infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Symptoms of the virus would include fever, aching muscles, loss of appetite, nausea and the appearance of itchy spots or ‘rash’ all over the body. The virus is usually mild in children and would disappear within 1-2 weeks. It is not a life-threatening infection, however, a complication may arise when teens and adults get it. Individuals with weak immune systems are likely to experience serious problems if they get chickenpox.

These complications may include;

• Pneumonia,
• Shingles
• Joint inflammation
• Encephalitis

It is advisable to visit your local clinic, such as the Mont Kiara clinic, Hibari Clinic, if you begin to notice symptoms of Chickenpox. The good news is that you can only get Chickenpox once in your lifetime. If you do want to prevent your chances of acquiring it for the first time, then you may want to consider getting vaccinated. It is not 100% effective; in fact, about 90% of people who are vaccinated become completely immune to the infection. The symptoms would be mild in the unlikely event that you do contract the infection after getting vaccinated.

When should you get vaccinated

Children require 2 doses of the Varicella vaccine; one 12 to 18 months and another between the ages of 4 to 6. Older children and adults should also take 2 doses; the second should be taken 4 to eight weeks after the first shot.
There are some cases where an individual would be unable to take the vaccine. This only applies to pregnant women, people who fall ill after receiving vaccinations or are allergic to Gelatin, or Neomycin. It would be best if you consult with your doctor before taking the vaccine. A recommended clinic that administers the vaccine is clinic Mont Kiara, Hibari clinic.

If you have contracted the virus, then the following tips should help in treating it.

Visit your doctor so that he/she could prescribe medication to treat the rashes and fever

lt is recommended that you stay hydrated by drinking a lot of fluids, preferably water.

It is expected for the rashes to be itchy, but you should avoid scratching them to minimize scarring. Applying the calamine lotion and keeping your nails short should help.

If you are experiencing mouth soreness, sucking on a sugar-free popsicle may ease the soreness.

Medication containing aspirin should not be used as it may cause complications. For fever and pain, take either medication prescribed to you by your doctor or Tylenol.