…..Answer: Chickenpox.
Chickenpox is a contagious illness caused by the varicella-zoster virus.
It commonly produces an itchy rash that develops into fluid-filled blisters before crusting over. Other symptoms may include fever, tiredness, headache and reduced appetite.
The infection is usually mild in children but can be more serious in adults, pregnant people, newborn babies and anyone with a weakened immune system.
After recovery, the virus remains inactive inside nerve tissue and may reactivate years later as shingles.
Anyone seriously unwell, having difficulty breathing or showing signs of a severe reaction requires urgent medical advice.
Tomorrow we discover what happens when the same virus returns later in life.
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Acknowledgement
Data and information are fact-checked against various recognised sources, including the New Zealand Resuscitation Council, Health Navigator New Zealand, St John, and other recognised entities specialising in the specific subject content. It should be noted that there are variances in protocols, which are identified where necessary.