hickenpox is a highly contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus

(VZV). It can cause an itchy, blister-like rash among other symptoms. The rash
first appears on the chest, back, and face, and then spreads over the entire
body.

Chickenpox can be serious, especially during pregnancy, in babies,

adolescents, adults, and people with weakened immune systems (lowered
ability to fight germs and sickness).

The best way to prevent chickenpox is to get the chickenpox vaccine.

Learn about how the chickenpox vaccine has been saving lives and
preventing illness since 1995: U.S. Chickenpox Vaccination Program.

Signs and Symptoms

Learn more about typical signs and symptoms of chickenpox.

Complications
Learn about possible serious health problems from chickenpox.

Transmission
Learn how the virus can spread.

Prevention and Treatment

Learn about ways to relieve chickenpox symptoms and treatments that may
be prescribed by a doctor.

Photos
View images of chickenpox in unvaccinated people and view images of
chickenpox in vaccinated people (also called breakthrough chickenpox or
breakthrough varicella).