Varicella in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign for “varicella” refers to the condition commonly known as chickenpox. It is often used in health-related discussions within the UK Deaf community, especially in contexts involving childhood illnesses and vaccinations.

How to Sign “Varicella”

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat ‘B’ handshape (flat palm with fingers together).
2. Position your hand in front of your chest, palm facing towards you.
3. Move your hand in a small circular motion, maintaining the ‘B’ handshape.
4. As you do this, raise your eyebrows to indicate the topic of discussion and maintain a neutral facial expression.
5. Finish the sign by bringing your hand back to the starting position in front of your chest.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use non-manual features like facial expressions, which are crucial for conveying the topic.
• Using an incorrect handshape; ensure the hand is flat and remains in the ‘B’ shape throughout.
• Not maintaining the correct movement; the circular motion should be small and controlled.

BSL vs ASL

In BSL, the sign for “varicella” incorporates a flat ‘B’ handshape with a circular motion. In contrast, ASL uses a different sign for chickenpox that does not involve the same handshape or movement, highlighting the differences in sign languages.

Related Signs

• Chickenpox – The general term for the illness.
• Illness – A broader term that encompasses various health conditions.
• Vaccine – Related to immunization against diseases like varicella.
• Child – Often relevant when discussing childhood illnesses.
• Health – Pertains to overall wellbeing and medical discussions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use “varicella” in a sentence?

You can say, “CHILD VARICELLA VACCINE,” using the sign for “child” followed by “varicella” and “vaccine” to convey that children get vaccinated against chickenpox.

Are there regional variations for this sign?

While the sign for “varicella” is generally consistent across the UK, some regions may have slight variations in handshape or movement. It’s good to observe local signing in your area.

What is a similar sign to “varicella”?

A similar sign is “chickenpox.” Both signs refer to the same illness but may differ in handshape or movement details.

What tips can help me learn this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to check your handshape and movement. Watching native signers can also provide insights into the sign’s nuances.

How can I remember the sign for “varicella”?

Link the circular motion of the hand with the idea of the rash that appears with chickenpox. This visual connection can help reinforce memory.

Is this sign used in medical contexts?

Yes, “varicella” is often used in medical discussions, especially when talking about vaccinations and children’s health.