Chicken pox is a highly contagious disease caused by the Varicella zoster virus which can be found at the nasopharyngeal secretions and secretions from the rashes. This causes infection once it enters the nasopharynx of another person. Mode of transmission is airborne.

Signs and Symptoms of Chicken Pox

• The presence or absence of low grade fever
• Headache, body malaise, muscle pain 24-48 hours before eruption of the rashes.
• Vesiculo-Pustular Rashes. It starts as a macular rash that then develops into a papule after a few hours, then turns into a vesicle after a few hours, the becomes a Vesiculo-pustular rash after a few hours.
  • The skin becomes very itchy. It can lead to scarring or pox marks. The client is advised to bathe daily.
  • Generalized distribution. It appears first at a covered part of the body, usually the trunk or the scalp.
  • Unifocular appearance or has one focus.
• Crusts fall off. The client is on the road to recovery.

Diagnostic Exam for Chicken Pox

Clinical Observation.

Medical Management for Chicken Pox

Management is symptomatic. Acyclovir, an anti-viral medication, can be administered. Anti-pruritic agents are also recommended.

Nursing Care for Chicken Pox

Nursing care is symptomatic. Client should be provided with daily skin care. The client should also have adequate rest and nutrition.

Prevention of Chicken Pox

Chicken pox gives a permanent immunity. It is communicable until all rashes have dried.

Immunization, Varivax can be given for clients 12-18 months old in 0.5 cc, Subcutaneously, in the deltoid. For clients 13 years old and above, 2 doses with 1 month interval.