Awareness about chickenpox among parents and guardians of children attending pedodontic OPD: A survey

Abstract

Aim: The aim was to create awareness of chickenpox among parents and guardians of children attending pedodontic OPD.Objectives: To create awareness of etiology, signs & symptoms, treatment and prevention about chickenpox among parents and guardians of children attending pedodontic OPD.Background: Chickenpox is a common childhood illness especially in kids under age 12. Caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), chickenpox is very contagious. Kids who do get it might have an itchy rash of spots all over the body and flu-like symptoms. An infected child should stay home and rest until the rash is gone. Varicella vaccine is given when kids are between 12 and 15 months old, followed by a booster shot at 4 to 6 years of ageReason: Chickenpox is a rapidly spreading contagious disease among children which spreads both through air and direct contact, hence it is essential to beware of it. Methodology: Data was collected among 50 parents or guardians of children attending pedodontic OPD, using a questionnaire that contained 25 questions. Conclusion: Chickenpox is a contagious disease recognized by a characteristic and often pathognomonic maculopapular vesicular rash. Varicella may lead to serious complications, including secondary bacterial skin and soft-tissue infections, cerebellitis, encephalitis, pneumonia, and coagulopathy. Neonates, adolescents, and immunocompromised individuals are more susceptible to complications. The study concludes that majority of the people have general knowledge about treatment, prevention and specific knowledge about the chickenpox disease.