Chickenpox: Causes itching

Chickenpox causes itching, blisters, and a rash due to a viral infection from the varicella virus. Learn how it’s treated and if you should quarantine. Identify common symptoms, causes and spread, treatment, and risks of chickenpox (varicella). Explore the different types of chickenpox , including Varicella, breakthrough, Shingles and severe cases. Learn about their causes, risks and preventions. Chickenpox , also called varicella, is characterized by itchy red blisters that appear all over the body. A doctor may prescribe ointments and other treatments to help with itching.