Which of the following diseases is caused by a varicella virus and typically presents with a characteristic vesicular rash along with intestinal discomfort?

Correct option is D

Sol. Chickenpox is caused by the Varicella-Zoster virus (VZV), a member of the herpesvirus family. It is a highly contagious disease characterized by fever, fatigue, and an itchy vesicular rash that appears in crops. The infection primarily affects children, but it can cause complications in adults and immunocompromised individuals. Once infected, the virus remains dormant in nerve tissues and can later reactivate as shingles (herpes zoster).
Explanation of each option:
· (a) SARS – Incorrect. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) is caused by the SARS-CoV coronavirus, which leads to severe respiratory illness, not a vesicular rash.
· (b) Rubella – Incorrect. Rubella (German measles) is caused by the Rubella virus and presents with a mild rash and flu-like symptoms, but not vesicular lesions like chickenpox.
· (c) Smallpox – Incorrect. Smallpox is caused by the Variola virus, not the Varicella-Zoster virus. Its rash is more severe, deeply embedded, and uniform, unlike the superficial and itchy vesicles seen in chickenpox.
· (d) Chickenpox – Correct answer. Varicella-Zoster virus (VZV) causes chickenpox, leading to a characteristic vesicular rash, fever, and gastrointestinal symptoms.