Chicken Pox and Epidemiology
Sylvia Hoffman
Grand Canyon University

Chicken Pox and Epidemiology
Chicken Pox is a virus caused by varicella-zoster, a member of the herpes family. This same virus also is a cause of herpes zoster other known as shingles in adults. Chicken pox is very contagious and can easily spread to people. Chicken pox is acquired by coming into contact with the fluid of a chicken pox blister, or airborne by an infected person sneezing near you. The blister-like rash usually lasts five to ten days. The incubation period lasts 10-21 days and a person with chickenpox becomes contagious one to two days before their blisters appear. The person with chicken pox remains contagious until all the blisters have crusted …show more content…

The data of outbreaks is limited since the vaccine has been introduced the outbreaks have gone down (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], n.d.).
“The determinants of health are defined as factors that include health of an individual or population. These factors may be categorized as individual biology genetics, individual health behavior, social and physical environments, access to health care and policies. “(Smith & Maurer, 2013, p. 46). These determinants address aspects that influence people to become healthier and what needs should be directed in order for society to receive opportunities of healthy living. The CDC recommends guidelines for immunizations of all children to receive two doses at age 12-15months of age and a second dose at age 4-6 years of age. When vaccination occurs, you protect yourself and others in the community. When individuals fail to follow guidelines of immunizations the risk for occurrence of the virus increases. Outbreaks can easily occur in densely populated areas and it will cause a large number of people exposed to the virus. People with poor access to information may not have the knowledge about the disease and the precautionary measures needed in prevention of the virus. A great determinant of health is the lack of healthcare or availability to services. These factors can prevent individuals in participating in preventive health or development of further complications. An individuals own behavior