Difference Between Chickenpox and Monkeypox | Different Types of Chickenpox | How is the Disease Treated |
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Difference between chickenpox and monkeypox
Chickenpox and monkeypox are highly contagious illnesses in which the rash and other symptoms develop within 10 days to two weeks of exposure. The symptoms of chickenpox and monkeypox generally look alike, although the lesions caused by monkeypox are typically less severe.
Chickenpox is caused by the Varicella zoster virus, while monkeypox is caused by the Simian Virus 40 (SV40) virus.
Chickenpox is a highly contagious illness that can spread easily among people. Symptoms usually begin with a red, blistering rash that often appears on the face, neck, and torso. The rash might also appear on the hands or feet. The rash looks like a small blister that are filled with clear fluid. Children are most likely to get chickenpox, but it is also possible for adults to develop the disease.
Are there different types of chickenpox?
In addition to the varicella zoster virus, there are two other viruses that can cause chickenpox. These viruses are:
- The vaccinia virus (chickenpox vaccine virus)
- The zoster virus (shingles)
These viruses are closely related and cause similar symptoms to chickenpox. However, the symptoms caused by the zoster virus usually last for longer than those caused by the varicella zoster virus.
The symptoms of both diseases are the same, but the symptoms of the zoster virus are often less severe.
How do doctors diagnose the disease?
If you develop chickenpox or any type of rash, your doctor will likely ask you about your medical history and whether you have any other conditions. You might also be asked about the rash and symptoms.
Your doctor will examine the rash and other symptoms to determine how severe they are. They might also order tests to rule out other possible causes.
Tests to look for other possible causes
Your doctor might order a test to look for a cause other than the varicella zoster virus.
These tests might include:
- Blood tests to check for other diseases that might be causing the rash.
- A skin culture to rule out other possible causes.
- A spinal tap to look for other possible causes.
How is the disease treated?
Chickenpox is usually mild and usually goes away on its own in seven to 10 days. You might need to stay home from school or work during the time of your illness.
You will most likely only need to stay home from school or work for a few days. If you are at high risk of complications, you may need to stay home from work for up to two weeks.
If you develop chickenpox, your doctor will most likely prescribe an antiviral medicine to help your symptoms. You can take an antiviral medicine at home or in the hospital.
Your doctor might also prescribe an oral or topical antibiotic medicine if you have severe symptoms.
What complications are associated with the disease?
Chickenpox can cause serious complications in rare cases. These complications include:
- Severe or life threatening pneumonia
- Excess fluid in the lungs (pleural effusion)
- Serious inflammation of the brain (encephalitis)
Chickenpox is usually mild and goes away on its own in 7 to 10 days.
How can I prevent chickenpox?
The best way to prevent chickenpox is to get vaccinated. The varicella zoster virus can only be transmitted from one person to another through the sharing of infected droplets, so it is important to get vaccinated.
It is also possible for you to get chickenpox if you are exposed to someone who has the virus. However, if you are exposed, it is important to contact your doctor right away.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children between the ages of 12 months and 12 years receive the following vaccinations:
- The chickenpox vaccine (Zostavax) is given as a series of three vaccinations. The first dose is given at 12 months of age. The second dose is given between the ages of 4 and 6 years. The third dose is given between the ages of 12 and 15 years.
- The varicella vaccine (Varivax) is given as a series of two vaccinations. The first dose is given at 12 months of age. The second dose is given between the ages of 4 and 6 years.
What is the outlook for people with the disease?
Most people with chickenpox recover completely from the illness without complications. However, you might need to stay home from school or work for a day or two if you develop severe symptoms.
If you do not receive the chickenpox vaccine, you are at risk of catching chickenpox and developing complications. In addition to the chickenpox vaccine, the following steps can help prevent a bout of chickenpox:
- Cover all chickenpox blisters with a bandage to prevent spreading the virus.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Avoid touching your face.
- Avoid contact with anyone who has chickenpox.
- Avoid close contact with people who have chickenpox.
The outlook for people with monkeypox is generally the same as that for people with chickenpox.
When should I call my doctor?
- Your symptoms worsen or do not improve.
- You develop a fever.
- Your rash spreads to the lymph nodes under your arm.
If you have questions about the difference between chickenpox and monkey pox, or if you think you have had the disease, talk with your doctor. You can also talk to your doctor about other symptoms you may have had with the virus that you did not have with chickenpox.
Bottom line
Chickenpox and monkeypox are highly contagious illnesses that can cause rashes that look like small blisters. The rash usually develops within 10 days to two weeks of being in contact with someone who has the virus. Chickenpox is more common in children, but it can also affect adults
Chickenpox is a highly contagious disease that can cause serious complications in rare cases. However, most people recover from the illness without complications.
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