Varicella-Zoster Virus (Chickenpox)

Continuing Education ActivityChickenpox or varicella is a contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus. The virus is responsible for chickenpox (usually primary infection in nonimmune hosts) and herpes zoster or shingles (following reactivation of latent infection). Chickenpox results in a skin rash that forms small, itchy blisters that scab over. This activity describes the cause, presentation, and pathophysiology of chickenpox and highlights the interprofessional team's role in treating and preventing this infection.Objectives:Identify the etiology of chickenpox.Evaluatethe presentation of chickenpox.Determinethe treatment and management options available for chickenpox.Communicateinterprofessional team strategies for improving care coordination and outcomes in patients with chickenpox.Access free multiple choice questions on this topic.IntroductionChickenpox or varicella is a contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). The virus is responsible for chick...