Which of the following is true of chickenpox?

Question

Question

This question was previously asked in

MP Mahila Supervisor Official Paper (Held on: 28 Mar, 2017 Shift 1)

Answer 1

Correct Answer: Virus is not found in scab

Rationale:

Chickenpox, also known as varicella, is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). This virus is highly contagious and can be spread through respiratory droplets or direct contact with the fluid from the blisters of an infected person.
The virus is present in the fluid-filled vesicles during the active phase of the disease, but once the vesicles crust over and form scabs, the virus is no longer present in these scabs. Therefore, scabs do not contain the virus and are not a source of transmission.

Explanation of Other Options:

Caused by RNA virus

Rationale: Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is a DNA virus, not an RNA virus. This means that its genetic material is composed of DNA rather than RNA.

Does not cross the placental barrier

Rationale: The varicella-zoster virus can cross the placental barrier, especially if a woman contracts chickenpox during pregnancy. This can lead to congenital varicella syndrome, which can cause birth defects and other complications in the fetus.

Virus can be grown on the chick embryo

Rationale: While certain viruses can be cultured using chick embryos, the varicella-zoster virus is typically grown in human cell cultures in the laboratory for research and diagnostic purposes. Chick embryos are not the preferred medium for growing this virus.

Conclusion:

Among the given options, the statement that the virus is not found in scabs is accurate. Understanding the nature and transmission of the varicella-zoster virus is crucial for preventing the spread of chickenpox and managing the disease effectively.