An acute infectious disease, usually seen in children under age 15, caused by varicella-zoster virus. Its hallmark is a rash, described clinically as having a “dewdrop on a rose petal” pattern, scattered in clusters (“crops”) over the trunk, face, scalp, upper extremities, and sometimes the thighs. It is transmitted mainly by respiratory droplets that contain infectious particles; direct contact with a lesion and contaminated equipment also can spread the virus. Reactivation of the virus in adults causes shingles.
Chickenpox is an illness brought about by the Varicella zoster virus, also known as human herpes virus 3. This viral infection can lead to significant abnormalities in fetal development if transmitted vertically within the initial 20 weeks of pregnancy. Furthermore, if transmitted perinatally, it can result in complications for newborns.