Can chickenpox in children be transmitted to adults?

Written by Hu Qi Feng
Pediatrics
Updated on September 26, 2024
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Chickenpox is a highly contagious exanthematous disease caused by varicella-zoster virus infection. Its clinical characteristics include the successive or simultaneous appearance of papules, vesicles, and crusts on the skin and mucous membranes. Both chickenpox and herpes zoster patients are sources of infection, primarily from those with chickenpox. From one to two days before the onset of the disease until crusting, it is highly contagious, mainly transmitted through airborne droplets and the respiratory tract, or by contact with vesicular fluid. The general population is susceptible, especially pregnant women and people with low immunity, making it possible to transmit to adults.

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Written by Huang Kun Mei
Pediatrics
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What fruits can you eat with chickenpox?

When children have chickenpox, they can eat foods and fruits rich in vitamins, such as kiwis, apples, and cherry tomatoes. During chickenpox, it is important to maintain a light and easily digestible diet, avoiding overly greasy and spicy foods. If the chickenpox is particularly itchy, topical calamine lotion can be applied to help relieve itching and prevent scratching, which can lead to infections. It is necessary to treat children with antiviral medications, as chickenpox is caused by a viral infection. (The use of medications should be under the guidance of a physician.)

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Written by Liu Gang
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The contagious period of chickenpox is how many days?

Chickenpox is caused by a viral infection. This disease is quite contagious and is mostly transmitted through the air and respiratory system. The contagious period generally lasts about ten days, but it can vary from person to person, with some patients possibly experiencing a longer duration. Generally, children exhibit milder symptoms and have a shorter treatment period. In adults, the treatment period tends to be longer, typically ending when the symptoms have subsided and the blisters on the body have completely dried and fallen off. Once this disease is contracted, it is essential to isolate and treat it properly using antiviral medications. Children and elderly individuals in the household should avoid frequent contact to prevent transmission. After the onset of chickenpox, high fever may occur, so it is necessary to have some fever-reducing medications on hand to prevent other illnesses caused by the fever.

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Written by Han Jian Hua
Infectious Disease
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When to get the chickenpox vaccine?

Chickenpox primarily affects infants and children, and the target group for chickenpox vaccination is mainly 1-12 years old. During this age period, most children enter preschool or elementary school institutions, and the chickenpox virus is highly contagious, transmittable through droplets and contact. Once one child contracts chickenpox, the surrounding children are almost certain to be infected too. Additionally, since there are currently no effective medications to cure chickenpox, it is best to vaccinate within this age range, namely 1-12 years old. Adults can receive the chickenpox vaccine without age restrictions. The timing can be decided based on individual circumstances, but it is generally recommended to get vaccinated before the onset of the peak season for chickenpox, which is best before the spring and winter seasons.

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Written by Hu Qi Feng
Pediatrics
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How to treat chickenpox in children?

Chickenpox is a self-limiting disease, and when there are no complications, treatment generally involves basic care and symptomatic management. Patients should be isolated, with enhanced nursing care such as frequently changing underwear, trimming the nails of children to prevent scratching, and reducing secondary infections. It is important to maintain good ventilation in the room, provide adequate water and easily digestible food, and use antipruritic agents as appropriate to relieve itching. Antiviral drugs may be appropriately selected, antibiotics can be used for secondary infections, and corticosteroids should not be used.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Precautions for Children with Chickenpox

Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus infection, which is more common in children but can also occur in adults. The peak season for this illness is spring. Therefore, after children contract chickenpox, it is crucial to isolate them to prevent contact with other children or the elderly, as it can spread to others quickly. Typically, conventional antiviral medications are sufficient for treatment. If fever occurs, it is advisable to take some fever-reducing medications appropriately. It is also recommended to have a light diet, eat more vegetables and fruits, and drink plenty of water. Adequate rest is important, and if small blisters appear on the body, avoid scratching them to prevent infection and more severe symptoms. Generally, this disease confers lifelong immunity, meaning there is no recurrence after the initial episode.