Friday, December 9, 2011

chicken pox

Chickenpox (varicella) was once considered a rite of passage for most children. Before routine chickenpox vaccination, almost everyone had been infected by the time they reached adulthood, sometimes with serious complications. Today, the number of cases and hospitalizations is down dramatically. Chickenpox is still around today...though its not as common to get get them. I had chickenpox when I little, so I can't get them again. People can get them again but it is very rare. Chickenpox are little red dots, they kinda look like pimples, that are really itchy! They can form anywhere on your body. Even in the mouth and eyes. Freaky, I know. You can tell if you have the chickenpox if you have:
  • A red, itchy rash, initially resembling insect bites, on your face, scalp, chest and back
  • Small, liquid-filled blisters that break open and crust over
  • Fever
  • Abdominal pain or loss of appetite
  • Mild headache
  • General feeling of unease and discomfort (malaise) or irritability
  • A dry cough
  • Headache
Going to the doctor is the best way to know if you have them.

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