Childhood illnesses like chickenpox, measles, and mumps are very common. While they often pass uneventfully in children, these diseases can have more serious effects on adults. Understanding how childhood diseases impact adults can help you take steps to avoid infection or manage any long-term consequences.
Chickenpox
Chickenpox is a highly contagious viral infection that causes an itchy, blister-like rash. While chickenpox is generally mild in children, it can be much more serious if contracted as an adolescent or adult.
Adults are at higher risk of developing severe symptoms and complications from chickenpox such as:
- Pneumonia – inflammation of the lungs
- Encephalitis – inflammation of the brain
- Bacterial skin infections
- Dehydration
- Bleeding problems
The characteristic chicken pox rash first appears as small red bumps that develop into fluid-filled blisters. The blisters eventually burst and crust over to form scabs. The rash is very itchy and uncomfortable. It typically occurs in several successive waves over 5-10 days.
Some people can develop shingles later in life after having chickenpox as a child. Shingles is caused by reactivation of the dormant chickenpox virus. It causes a painful rash along nerve pathways.
There is no cure for chickenpox. Instead, chicken pox treatment focuses on relieving symptoms while the infection runs its course. Adults are often given antiviral medications like acyclovir. Calamine lotion and colloidal oatmeal baths can help soothe the itchy rash. Paracetamol or ibuprofen may provide fever/pain relief.
Alternatively, if you have not had chicken pox as a child, you can opt for chicken pox vaccination in Oxford.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease marked by fever, cough, runny nose, inflamed eyes, and a spreading body rash. While measles resolves uneventfully in most children, it can have serious complications in adolescents and adults, including:
- Ear infections
- Pneumonia
- Encephalitis
- Miscarriage or preterm birth in pregnant women
The characteristic measles rash first appears as flat red spots on the face which spread downwards to the neck, arms, trunk, legs, and feet. The spots may join together as they spread. The rash lasts for up to a week.
There is no specific treatment for measles. Care is aimed at relieving symptoms and monitoring for complications. Measles can be prevented through measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccination. Adults should ensure they have received the recommended two doses of MMR vaccine.
Mumps
Mumps is a contagious viral infection of the salivary glands. It typically causes swollen, puffy cheeks and jaw pain. While mumps usually resolves on its own in children, complications are more common if mumps develops after puberty.
Possible complications in teens/adults include:
- Swelling of the testicles or ovaries
- Deafness
- Meningitis – inflammation of the brain and spinal cord covering
There is no treatment that can stop mumps infections. Supportive care such as soft foods, pain relievers, and cold compresses may help relieve symptoms. The mumps vaccine is given as part of the MMR shot. Adults should make sure they are up to date with their MMR immunisations.
The childhood diseases chickenpox, measles, and mumps can lead to more significant illness and complications when contracted later in life. However, vaccines are available that safely and effectively protect against these preventable illnesses. Following recommended vaccination schedules can help limit the impact of childhood diseases in adults.
