Varicella Virus
By: Mike Mathisen
Symptoms
When somebody has Varicella, or chickenpox, they can encounter many different symptoms. The main symptom that is noticed is the blisters, scabs, ulcers, and red spots. In the entire body, they may encounter fatigue, fever, or loss of appetite. It is also common to get headaches and a sore throat.
Causes
This is caused by varicella-zoster virus or also known as the Human herpesvirus 3. This virus can also be spread by touching or breathing in the virus cells.
Immune cells involved in Immune Response
T cells are needed for recovery from varicella, since they are natural killers. This is why the infection produces a specific T cell-mediated immunity and a specific antibody to kill the virus.
How Virus Replicates
The virus replicates using the lytic cycle. The lytic cycle is a cycle in which the virus attaches, grows more of the virus by forcing the cell to create more, and then releases to attach to more cells and keep growing. This cell does not die, although it is passed on by generations from parents.
Treatment
There are several drugs that can be used to treat chicken pox. Analgesic to relieve pain, antihistamine to stop allergic reactions, and an antiviral drug to reduce viruses ability to replicate.
Prevention
This virus can be prevented with a vaccination. Most people that get a vaccination do not end up getting the disease, so according to cdc.gov, the vaccination is very effective and safe. This is the main way to not get Varicella.