Health Tip: Chickenpox May Lead to Complications

Chickenpox is a contagious viral infection. While most recover fully, some kids and adults suffer serious complications. People with HIV/AIDS and others with weakened immune systems appear to be at greatest risk.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says possible complications of chickenpox include:

• Pneumonia.
• Bleeding problems.
• Dehydration.
• Inflammation.
• Infection of the brain, skin, bones or joints.
• Sepsis, a bacterial infection of the bloodstream.

The chickenpox vaccine is the best way to protect you and your child from the disease, the CDC says.