How does chickenpox affect the cell?

The varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox, enters the body through the respiratory tract or direct contact with the blisters of an infected person. Once inside the body, the virus travels to the lymph nodes, where it replicates and multiplies. From there, it spreads through the bloodstream, infecting skin cells and causing the characteristic red, itchy rash.

The virus primarily infects keratinocytes, which are the main cells of the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin. The virus enters the keratinocytes through fusion with the cell membrane. Once inside the cell, the virus replicates and produces new virions, which are released from the cell and can infect other cells.

Infection with the varicella-zoster virus can also affect other cells in the body, including nerve cells. The virus can spread to the sensory nerves and cause inflammation, leading to pain and discomfort. In some cases, the virus can remain dormant in the nerve cells for years and reactivate later in life, causing shingles, a painful skin condition.

Overall, chickenpox affects the body by targeting and infecting skin cells, resulting in the development of the characteristic rash and other symptoms.