KOLLAM, KERALA — Health authorities in Kollam district have confirmed 97 cases of chickenpox, prompting officials to declare a district-wide alert. The surge in cases has raised concerns among residents and health professionals alike.
Although chickenpox is typically more prevalent during the summer months, health officials attribute the current increase to fluctuating climatic conditions during the rainy season.
The varicella-zoster virus, responsible for chickenpox, spreads easily through respiratory droplets and direct contact with infected individuals. In densely populated areas like Kollam town, the virus can transmit rapidly, especially when one person gets infected.
Health authorities have expressed concern over the potential complications of chickenpox in certain groups. Children, adolescents, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of severe infections and complications. After the primary infection, the virus can remain dormant and may resurface later in life as shingles.
Chickenpox, caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), is a highly contagious disease marked by an itchy rash that progresses from red spots to fluid-filled blisters, eventually forming scabs. While often mild in children, it can lead to serious complications in adults, pregnant women, newborns, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Early Signs (1–2 days before rash): Fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, headache.
Rash Progression: Starts on the chest, back, and face, spreading to the entire body, including inside the mouth, eyelids, or genital area.
Duration: Typically lasts 4–7 days.
Breakthrough Cases: Vaccinated individuals may experience milder symptoms with fewer blisters and lower fever.
Vaccination: Two doses of the varicella vaccine are recommended for children, adolescents, and adults without evidence of immunity.
First dose at 12–15 months.
Second dose at 4–6 years.
Effectiveness: The vaccine is about 90% effective at preventing chickenpox and nearly 100% effective at preventing severe disease.
Post-Exposure Prophylaxis: For individuals without immunity, varicella-zoster immune globulin (VariZIG) can reduce the severity of the disease if administered within 10 days of exposure
In response to the outbreak, district health officials have initiated vaccination drives and awareness campaigns to curb further spread. While chickenpox vaccination is not part of the universal immunisation programme, it is available in all hospitals.
Health officials strongly recommend vaccination for both adults and children, particularly for those planning to move to hostels or travel outside Kerala, as the disease spreads easily.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests these treatment methods:
Antiviral Medications: Acyclovir or valacyclovir may be prescribed for individuals at high risk of severe disease, such as adults, pregnant women, and immunocompromised persons.
Symptom Management: Use non-aspirin medications like acetaminophen to alleviate fever.
Avoid Aspirin: Aspirin use in children with chickenpox is associated with Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious illness.
1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "About Chickenpox." Last modified April 24, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/chickenpox/about/index.html.
(Rh/Eth/ARC/MSM)
