Varicella

Definition: A contagious childhood disorder caused by the varicella zoster virus. It is transmitted via respiratory secretions and contact with chickenpox blister contents. It presents with a vesicular skin rush, usually associated with fever, headache, and myalgias. The pruritic fluid-filled vesicles occur 10-21 days after exposure and last for 3-4 days. An additional 3-4 days of malaise follows before the affected individual feels better. An individual is contagious 1-2 days prior to the appearance of the blisters until all blisters are crusted over. Generally, healthy individuals recover without complications.

Synonyms (terms occurring on more labels are shown first): chickenpox, varicella, chicken pox

More information: PubMed search and possibly Wikipedia