The Varicella-Zoster Virus

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The Varicella-Zoster virus, is also referred to most commonly as Chickenpox, it’s a very contagious disease. (NCIRD, 2016). “Its genus is the Varicellovirus, and its species is the human Herpes virus.” (NCIRD, 2016, paragraph 1). A sign of this disease is a rash, which will cause discomfort and be very itchy. The rash will fill with fluid and turn into blisters, eventually progressing to scabs. The rash appears on the face, back, and chest, then spreads to the rest of the body. (Anonymous, 2016). The rash first appears as flat, small red spots. Blisters develop in clusters. (Alan, 2013). Further symptoms include fatigue, high fever, headache, stiff neck, extreme illness, very red and warm rashes and a loss of appetite. (NCIRD, 2016).
The Varicella-Zoster virus spreads by coming in contact with the particles coming from blisters of an infected patient. It also comes from tiny droplets that spread in the air after the patient breathes or talks. (NCIRD, 2016). This virus can be spread 1-2 days prior to getting the rash, until the blisters finally form which happens within 5-7 days. It takes about two weeks (between 10-21 days) following exposure around …show more content…

(NCIRD, 2016). They may need to take antiviral medications. (Anonymous, 2016). Varicella-Zoster Immune Globulin is given to weaken immune system patients and newborns after exposure to Chickenpox. (Alan, 2013). Complications of this disease include bacterial infections of the skin and soft tissues (Streptococcal infections), Pneumonia, Encephalitis, and Sepsis. (NCIRD, 2016) Aspirin cannot be used to treat Chickenpox, both combined can cause Reye’s Syndrome. This syndrome affects the blood, brain and liver of a patient who just recently had a viral disease. (Anonymous, 2016). When treating someone with Chickenpox, the healthcare team must be immune to this virus. (NCIRD,

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