From the Research
The name "chickenpox" doesn't actually have anything to do with chickens, and its origin is believed to date back to the late 1600s, with several theories about its etymology, including a possible resemblance to chickpeas or a comparison to smallpox, implying a lesser or smaller disease 1. The disease itself is caused by the varicella-zoster virus and is characterized by an itchy rash with fluid-filled blisters. Some key points to consider about chickenpox include:
- The virus remains dormant in nerve cells after recovery and can reactivate later in life as shingles 1
- Chickenpox cannot be contracted from chickens or other poultry, as it's a human disease spread through respiratory droplets or direct contact with the rash 1
- The name "chickenpox" is thought to have originated from the mild nature of the disease compared to smallpox, with "chicken" implying something lesser or smaller, or possibly from the Old English word "gican," meaning "to itch" 1
- Varicella zoster virus infection can be severe in immunocompromised individuals, infants, and adults, and can lead to complications such as postherpetic neuralgia, myelitis, cranial nerve palsies, meningitis, stroke, retinitis, and gastroenterological infections 1
- Highly effective vaccines are available to prevent varicella and zoster, and long-term immunity to varicella develops after varicella or vaccination, although immunity does not protect against reactivation 1