Initially, the patient experienced epigastric and stomach pain, followed by a sore throat and high fever. He self-treated for 4 days at home with antibiotics, fever reducers, cough medicine, and topical medication for the chickenpox spots. However, blisters rapidly spread across his body. He suffered a continuous fever of 39–40 degrees Celsius and received IV fluids at home, but his condition did not improve. His respiratory failure worsened after hospital admission, necessitating his transfer to the National Hospital for Tropical Diseases.

Dr. Pham Van Phuc, Deputy Director of the Intensive Care Center, reported that the patient was admitted with a rapid heart rate, respiratory failure, diffuse lung damage, and required sedation and mechanical ventilation. He also presented with coagulopathy and a severe infection syndrome. Numerous uneven blisters and pustules covered his body. Doctors diagnosed him with septic shock and ARDS pneumonia, a severe complication of chickenpox.

Patient in critical condition due to chickenpox complications. *Photo: Hospital provided*

According to Dr. Phuc, this case is notable because the patient, previously healthy with no underlying medical conditions, experienced a rapid progression of the disease. He developed severe ARDS pneumonia, requiring intensive care and mechanical ventilation. This also represents a typical example of household chickenpox transmission through close contact, as the patient had not been vaccinated against the disease.

After 9 days of intensive treatment, the patient's respiration improved, and his coagulopathy was controlled. The blisters and pustules gradually dried. However, his lung damage remained severe, and he continues to receive monitoring and intensive care.

Chickenpox is an infectious disease caused by the Varicella zoster virus, typically presenting with fever, fatigue, headache, loss of appetite, and skin blisters. While common in children, unvaccinated adults who have never had the disease remain at risk of infection and severe complications like pneumonia, encephalitis, or skin infections. It poses a particular danger to pregnant women.

The chickenpox vaccine is now widely available. Full vaccination helps reduce the risk of contracting the disease and limits severe complications. Individuals with underlying medical conditions, compromised immune systems, or those who have never had chickenpox should proactively get vaccinated. When in contact with someone who has chickenpox, implement protective measures to limit transmission. Adults with suspected chickenpox symptoms should not self-treat at home but seek medical attention early for timely examination and management, preventing the disease from progressing to a severe stage.

Le Nga