Chickenpox is a viral infection that spreads easily from person to person. The main sign is an itchy rash all over the body.
It is caused by the varicella zoster virus (VZV). The virus spreads quickly to others 1 to 2 days before the rash appears and the first day after the rash appears. The virus can spread to others until all of the blisters have crusted. A person can get the virus from:
- Breathing airborne droplets that have the virus
- Direct contact with fluid from a chickenpox rash
A pregnant mother can also pass it to the fetus.
Last reviewed March 2020 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Shawna Grubb, RN
Last Updated: 3/19/2021
