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Chickenpox (Varicella)

Varicella is spread by coughing, sneezing, or direct contact with fluid from the blisters caused by the disease. Varicella can be severe and may lead to serious skin infections, pneumonia, and meningitis (swelling of the covering of the brain and spinal cord).

Symptoms of the disease include the following:

• fever
• itchy skin with blister rash
• general feeling of illness

Although considered a common childhood disease, the varicella zoster virus can be reactivated later in life and cause a painful sensory-nerve rash called shingles. Approximately 100 deaths per year nationally occur from complications of varicella.

Scientific Term:

Varicella

Generic Term:

Chickenpox

Age Groups at Risk:

All

Vaccine Info:

• Varicella vaccine
   
• Vaccine Information Statements:
  • Varicella vaccine (PDF)

Related Information:

• Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC)