Chickenpox

This passage discusses the disease of chickenpox.

Lexile Level: 700L

Categories: Sports & Health

Chickenpox is a rash that causes red, itchy spots. The spots can spread across the whole body. They are most often found on the face, scalp, chest, and back. Chickenpox can also cause fever, upset stomach, and headaches. If you get the chickenpox, try not to scratch the spots. If you scratch, it can take longer for the spots to heal. A cool bath can help reduce the itching. Certain types of lotions can also help control the itching. Your body will heal faster if you get extra sleep. Chickenpox is known as a childhood illness. But teenagers and adults can get it too. Before 1995, about 4 million people in the United States were infected with the disease each year. In 1995, doctors starting using a shot, or vaccine. The vaccine protects you against the disease. In the last ten years, chickenpox cases have gone down 80 percent.