Chickenpox is a contagious disease caused by the varicella zoster virus that causes an itchy rash and blisters on the skin. It was first discovered in the 9th century by Muhammad ibn Zakariya Razi and more details were provided in the 1500s by Giovanni Filippo. Symptoms include fever, muscle pain and an itchy rash that turns into fluid-filled blisters. After initial infection, the virus can remain dormant and cause shingles later in life. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms as there is no cure.