Chicken Pox is a highly contagious viral disease caused by a herpes virus (Varicella Zoster). Chicken Pox is normally contracted by children before the age of twelve.

The symptoms of Chicken Pox are: A rash of small semi-solid blisters that are very itchy loosely grouped across torso and limbs (very rarely on palms of hands and soles of feet). Slight fevers and headaches may be present but these normally occur before the rash begins.

Initially the rash consists of raised red spots that are itchy but rapidly turn into blisters that contain a clear liquid. After two to three days the liquid in the unbroken blisters turns opaque while broken blisters become encrusted.

In severe cases the lesions become internal infecting the airways and throat, temperatures remain elevated for longer and breathing difficulties and a sore, inflamed throat may develop.

The disease is contagious until the lesions heal. The disease can be contracted by contact with the liquid in the blisters and also from inhaling air borne droplets caused by sneezing or coughing.

Symptoms last from four to five days to more than two weeks.