Infectious Diseases and HIV Conference

It is transmitted mainly through droplet spread and contact with the vesicular rash of the infected person.

In this lecture, it will discuss the presentation of the disease especially the characteristic vesicular rash, fever, and malaise. The typical course of the disease and the sequence from the beginning symptoms to appearance and resolution of the rash will be discussed by the participants.

Although chickenpox is generally a mild disease in children, it may be seriously complicated in immunocompromised patients, adults, and pregnant women. This session will discuss epidemiological trends in chickenpox, especially the incidences and outbreaks by risk factors for severe disease. Potential complications include pneumonia and secondary bacterial infections, plus encephalitis.

Participants will be advised to always recognize and intervene promptly. Management of chickenpox is basically symptomatic and preventative of complications. This session would discuss the current treatment guidelines-for use of antihistamines for itching, analgesics for fever, and antiviral for severe cases-and remind participants how to monitor for complications and when to refer to a physician.

The varicella vaccine has dramatically reduced the incidence of chickenpox and its complications. Vaccination will be emphasized as an approach in preventing the infection for this session, exploring recent recommendations on vaccination and their coverage.

A summary of the live attenuated varicella vaccine, its effectiveness, and justification for a two-dose regimen to enhance immunization is provided to the attendee. The last discussion of future research directions concerning chickenpox will be on improvements in vaccine technology, the impact of vaccination on herd immunity, and follow-up surveillance of breakthrough infections.

Participants will appreciate the necessity for public health programs to promote vaccination and decrease the burden of chickenpox.