"An infection caused by Varicella Zoster virus, this disease commonly occurs in children in the age group 5-15 years but can occur in infants as well as adults," says Dr Umesh Vaidya, chief of the Neo Natal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at KEM hospital. There is more morbidity and mortality in adolescents and adults and the disease is transmitted after airborne / contact (2-3 weeks after exposure).

Child is infectious 24 to 48 hours prior to appearance of rash till all lesions are crusted (up to 7 days). After the prodrome of fever, loss of appetite and weakness, the rash appears. The rash is initially red (maculae) evolving into boils (Vesicles), which finally crust. This evolution occurs over 7 days. Rash occurs predominantly on the trunk, back and also on the extremities, oral cavity, scalp. Lesions do not leave permanent scars. There can be complications though it is rare. Hemorrhage, abdominal pain, pneumonia, encephalitis and ataxia (loss of balance) are among the complications.