Yes, chicken pox (varicella) is a very contagious virus that primarily infects humans. It is primarily spread through direct contact with an infected person, but can also be spread through airborne particles from an infected person’s sneezing or coughing. The virus typically takes 10-21 days after exposure to show symptoms.
The most common symptom of chicken pox is a red, itchy rash that appears on the face, scalp, and body. The rash usually forms blisters that can become filled with fluid and eventually burst and crust over. Other symptoms of chicken pox may include fever, tiredness, loss of appetite, and headache. The rash and other symptoms usually last about 5-10 days before the infection starts to clear up.
Complications of chicken pox are rare, but can happen. These may include bacterial infections of the skin, pneumonia, encephalitis (a potentially fatal inflammation of the brain), and Reye’s syndrome (a potentially fatal disorder of the nervous system). Chicken pox can also cause shingles in adults who have had the virus before.
Fortunately, a safe and effective vaccine is available for chicken pox. Vaccination is recommended for all children and adults who have not had the virus before. It is also recommended for adults who may have been exposed to the virus, such as healthcare workers or people who are in close contact with children.