Chickenpox Vaccine is now available at myPediaclinic after being out of stock for several months in Dubai. You can now have your children take the vaccine by taking an appointment at the clinic. Dr. Medhat Ab-Shaaban the award winning pediatrician behind myPediaclinic, winner of best pediatric clinic in Dubai award by Mother, Baby, and Child magazine, discusses with us the most frequently asked questions about Chickenpox.
What is chickenpox?
Chickenpox is a contagious disease that is a combination of a severe rash, fever, and fatigue. It is caused by a virus called Varicella-Zosfter Virus (VSV) and it is highly contagious. A person infected with chickenpox starts with one or two vesicles (small blisters) and end up with 250-300 dots all over the body. The rash turns into a blister and later turns into scabs.
How long does chickenpox last?
5-7 days
Is chickenpox dangerous?
Chickenpox can be dangerous and may even cause death. It is more dangerous for children, pregnant women, and people with lowered immunity. The reason it is dangerous is because it can cause severe complications such as:
- Bacterial infections of the skin such as Group A streptococcal infection
- Pneumonia
- Infection or inflammation of the brain
- Sepsis
- Dehydration
How is chickenpox transferred?
By touching a person with chickenpox or breathing the virus particles. It may take up to 2 weeks for another person to get infected with chickenpox after being in touch with someone who has the disease.
How to avoid chickenpox?
The best way to avoid chickenpox is to get the vaccine against it.
If my son/daughter had a chickenpox vaccine, does that mean they will never get the disease?
It is possible but rare to get chickenpox after the vaccine. Even if they get the chickenpox illness in will be much milder.
If I got infected with chickenpox before, does that mean I will not get it again?
People who have had the chickenpox disease will most likely have lifetime immunity. It may in very rare cases happen again.
What shall I do if my son/daughter develops chickenpox?
Call the pediatrician and the pediatrician will assess the case and provide solutions for itchiness, prescribe antiviral medication or control any complications that may arise.
