Dr. Dam Thi Thanh Tam, from the General Internal Medicine Department at Tam Anh General Hospital, Hanoi, reported that Ms. Le was admitted with a fever of 39-40 degrees C, widespread blisters, a dry cough, and chest tightness.

Blood tests revealed increased white blood cells, decreased platelets, and a high CRP index, indicating infection. A chest computed tomography (CT) scan showed ground-glass opacities and scattered consolidation in both lungs. Doctors explained that the chickenpox virus damages the skin and compromises the immune system, allowing bacteria to cause superinfection, which then spreads to the respiratory tract and develops into pneumonia.

Dr. Tam examines Ms. Le's skin lesions before her discharge. *Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital*

Doctors prescribed systemic antiviral medication combined with intravenous antibiotics to combat superinfection, along with fluid and electrolyte replacement. After 4 days, Ms. Le's fever subsided, her cough improved, and she was discharged for home treatment.

Chickenpox is an acute infectious disease caused by the Varicella zoster virus, with incidence often peaking during seasonal transitions. The disease spreads via the respiratory tract when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or through direct contact with fluid from ruptured blisters. Chickenpox can lead to severe complications, including skin superinfection, pneumonia, meningoencephalitis, and liver damage. Many patients worsen their condition by being complacent, self-medicating with folk remedies, or avoiding water and wind.

Typical symptoms of chickenpox include widespread blisters across the body, notably absent from the palms and soles. Ruptured blisters in the mouth cavity cause pain, superinfection, and difficulty eating or drinking. The disease is often confused with hand, foot, and mouth disease or skin allergies.

Dr. Tam emphasized that one effective way to prevent the disease is vaccination. The chickenpox vaccine offers about 90-95% protection and is recommended for both children and adults.

Thanh Ba