Causative agent of Chickenpox is:

Appeared in: RML MAINS 2025

Explanation

Chickenpox, also known as varicella, is caused by the Varicella-Zoster virus (VZV).
VZV is a member of the human herpesvirus family, specifically Human alphaherpesvirus 3.
Primary infection with VZV results in chickenpox, which is characterized by a vesicular rash.
The same virus can reactivate later in life from a latent state in the dorsal root ganglia to cause herpes zoster, or shingles.

Option B: Paramyxoviruses are a family of RNA viruses that cause different diseases, most notably measles and mumps, not chickenpox.
Option C: The Variola virus is the causative agent of smallpox, a distinct and much more severe disease that has been eradicated globally. Smallpox rash is centrifugal (more on extremities), whereas chickenpox rash is centripetal (more on the trunk).
Option D: Myxovirus is an older term that generally refers to the Orthomyxoviridae family of viruses, which are responsible for causing influenza (the flu).

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Causative agents of common viral infections as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding that VZV causes chickenpox is crucial for vaccination schedules. The varicella vaccine is a live attenuated vaccine that prevents primary infection.
Nurses must implement airborne and contact precautions for hospitalized patients with chickenpox to prevent nosocomial spread, as the virus is highly contagious.
It is important to educate patients that a history of chickenpox means they are at risk for developing shingles later in life, especially if they become immunocompromised.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of microbiology and communicable diseases.
First, identify the key term in the question stem: 'Chickenpox'.
Access your memory of common infectious diseases and their causative agents.
Systematically evaluate each option. Recall that 'Varicella' is the medical term for chickenpox, which directly links to 'Varicella-Zoster virus'.
Eliminate the other options by associating them with the diseases they cause: Paramyxovirus (measles, mumps), Variola virus (smallpox), and Myxovirus (influenza).

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 1 — Subpart A (pp 26-201 of 604) p. 146-148

E6 Medicine Harrison 22e Part 1 p. 1545-1547

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