Chickenpox manifests with skin rashes, itchy blisters, and systemic symptoms like fever and fatigue. Recognizing early signs such as red spots and flulike symptoms helps in prompt diagnosis and management. The disease spreads easily through respiratory droplets and contact with contaminated items. Proper understanding of its symptoms is vital for preventing complications and ensuring timely care.

Chickenpox, caused by the herpes varicella-zoster virus, typically affects children but can also impact adults. Once infected, individuals usually develop lifelong immunity, as the virus remains dormant in the nervous system and can reactivate as shingles later in life. The disease spreads easily through respiratory droplets and contact with contaminated objects, such as bedding or clothing. The primary symptom is a distinctive skin rash accompanied by blisters, which generally appear 10 to 21 days after infection. Early signs include mild fever, fatigue, headache, and sensitivity to light, followed by the appearance of red spots that turn into itchy blisters. These blisters often break and crust over, progressing through various stages over about two weeks. Recognizing these symptoms early can help in timely treatment and prevention.