Identify common symptoms, causes and spread, treatment, and risks of chickenpox (varicella).

The most common late complication of chickenpox is shingles (herpes zoster), caused by reactivation of the varicella zoster virus decades after the initial, often childhood, chickenpox infection.

Chickenpox (varicella-zoster virus) causes an itchy, blister-like rash that’s highly contagious. Getting a vaccine can protect you from it.

Apr 19, 2023 · The varicella-zoster virus stays in your nerve cells after the chickenpox rash goes away. Many years later, the virus can turn back on and cause shingles, a painful cluster of blisters. The …

Feb 5, 2026 · What is chickenpox (varicella)? Chickenpox is an infection that causes an itchy, blistering rash and is very contagious, meaning it is spread easily from one person to another.

Jul 31, 2025 · Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Varicella-zoster is part of the herpes family of viruses. It commonly causes an itchy rash on the skin with blisters, fever, headache, loss of …

Dec 18, 2025 · Chickenpox is a contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It causes an itchy rash with blisters. Learn about vaccines and treatment.

Nov 5, 2025 · Chickenpox, or varicella-zoster virus (VZV), is a highly contagious infection. Children aren’t the only people who can get the virus.

Nov 14, 2023 · Chickenpox is caused by the contagious varicella virus and mainly affects children. It’s easy to spot because of its itchy rash, mild fever, and body aches.

Feb 4, 2025 · Chickenpox, also called varicella, is a highly contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). This virus is a member of the herpesvirus family, and humans are the only known …