Chickenpox is a common childhood disease. It is caused by the varicella-zoster (VZV) virus and can spread from child to child. Chickenpox usually begins with a fever, headache, crankiness, and loss of appetite. A day or two later a red rash with blisters appears. Most children have had a shot to prevent them from getting this disease. Sometimes children who have had the shot still get chickenpox, however it is generally very mild and the rash might be the only symptom. These children are contagious and should stay home until the blisters scab over. Please contact your healthcare provider if you are concerned about any symptoms your child is experiencing. More information can be found at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.