Chickenpox (varicella) is a highly contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It can spread easily from person to person through direct contact with the fluid within the chickenpox blisters or by inhaling respiratory droplets from an infected person. Here are the primary ways chickenpox can spread:
1. Direct contact: The most common way chickenpox spreads is through direct touch with the fluid-filled blisters of an infected person. This can occur by touching the blisters directly or by contact with items (such as clothing or bedding) that have come into contact with the fluid.
2. Airborne transmission: The virus can be transmitted through droplets released into the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. When the infected person breathes out these respiratory droplets, others nearby can inhale them and become infected.
3. Contaminated surfaces: VZV can survive outside the body on surfaces for a short period of time. If someone with chickenpox touches a surface and then another person touches the same surface and then touches their face (particularly the mouth, nose, or eyes), the virus can be transmitted.
4. Saliva: Kissing, sharing utensils, or any activity that involves exposure to an infected person's saliva can lead to transmission of the virus.
5. Airborne particles: It is also possible, although less frequent, to catch chickenpox by breathing in airborne particles containing the virus in settings such as healthcare facilities.
Once a person contracts chickenpox, they become contagious from about one to two days before the rash appears until all the blisters have crusted over, which usually takes around five to seven days. It is important to note that people who have had chickenpox are at risk of developing shingles later in life, as the varicella-zoster virus remains dormant in the body after the initial infection.
how does chicken pox spread?
2 answers
when was the famous outbreak of chicken pox? Please do it in chronological order.