Chickenpox
Chickenpox is a highly infectious viral illness that affects 95% of children under the age of 12. It is characterized by an itchy, blistery rash with mild fever and systemic symptoms. Most people recover from chickenpox without any lasting effects, but some people may develop more serious complications including:
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meningitis, encephalitis, pneumonia, hepatitis, arthritis, bacterial super-infection, and stroke.
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maternal transmission to the fetus that can result in birth defects.
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the chickenpox virus can also remain dormant in the body and reactivate later in life in the form of shingles.
The
chickenpox vaccine is provided for individuals who have never had
chickenpox and are over the age of 12 months. For more information please contact your
health centre or public health unit.
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Last Updated: November 08, 2006 |
