Kerala is currently facing a surge in chickenpox cases, with over 6,000 infections and nine deaths reported in the last 75 days alone. The outbreak, caused by the extremely contagious varicella-zoster virus, poses a significant health danger to the public, especially as temperatures rise.
Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan, Chairman of the Indian Medical Association's research cell in Kerala, emphasizes the importance of taking precautions against this summertime virus. He emphasizes the need for vaccination as a critical method for controlling the spread of chicken pox.
Additionally, immunization not only minimizes transmission but also lowers the severity of possible consequences.
Transmission dynamics show the ease with which chickenpox spreads, primarily through respiratory droplets and contact with infected people or surfaces. Due to its high infectivity, strict measures are required, including isolation protocols, until all lesions have healed.
Dr. Sulphi Noohu, past president of IMA Kerala, underlines the seasonal character of epidemics, which worsen with rising temperatures. Early detection and rapid treatment are critical in controlling the condition, especially for susceptible populations, including newborns, pregnant women, and those with impaired immune systems.
Chickenpox symptoms typically manifest 10 to 21 days after exposure to the virus.
Fever, headache, exhaustion, and loss of appetite are all early signs.
A rash appears a few days later, starting as small, red spots and progressing to fluid-filled blisters.
The rash is accompanied by other symptoms such as a sore throat, abdominal pain, and muscle aches.
The rash usually lasts about 5 to 10 days and undergoes stages of blistering, crusting, and scabbing.
Chickenpox primarily spreads through respiratory droplets expelled when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Direct contact with the fluid from chickenpox blisters can also transmit the virus.
The virus is highly contagious, with individuals being most infectious from a day or two before the rash appears until all blisters have crusted over.
Indirect transmission can occur through contact with contaminated surfaces.
The danger of getting chickenpox is higher in places where there is crowding, such as daycare centers or schools, if one is not immune or vaccinated.
The diagnosis of chickenpox is typically based on clinical symptoms and examination.
Laboratory tests such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) may be used to confirm the diagnosis in certain cases.
Complications:
Complications of chickenpox can include bacterial infections of the skin, pneumonia, or encephalitis, especially in adults or those with weakened immune systems.
Pregnant women and individuals with immune suppression are at greater risk of developing severe complications.
Treatment for chickenpox is primarily supportive and aimed at alleviating symptoms.
Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen can help reduce fever and relieve discomfort.
Antiviral medications may be prescribed in certain cases, particularly for individuals at high risk of complications.
It is essential to maintain good hydration and avoid scratching the rash to prevent secondary bacterial infections.
Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or if there are signs of complications.
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent chickenpox and its complications.
Routine vaccination according to the recommended schedule is crucial, starting at age 12–15 months with a booster dose at 4-6 years.
Avoid close contact with infected individuals, especially during their contagious period, to reduce the risk of transmission.
Practice good hygiene by regularly washing hands with soap and water and covering coughs and sneezes.
To reduce the spread of the illness, if someone in the family has chickenpox, keep them alone until all lesions have crusted over and refrain from sharing personal objects.
The healthcare infrastructure urges vigilance and proactive measures from the populace. Timely reporting of symptoms, adherence to isolation guidelines, and seeking treatment under medical supervision are paramount to containing the outbreak's escalation.
The ongoing chickenpox outbreak in Kerala underscores the importance of vaccination and adherence to preventive measures to mitigate the spread of the disease and prevent severe complications. Public awareness and timely intervention are crucial in controlling the outbreak and safeguarding public health. The surge in chickenpox cases in Kerala highlights the importance of vaccination and adherence to preventive measures. With effective vaccination and early detection, the spread of the virus can be mitigated, reducing the risk of complications and fatalities associated with the disease. Public awareness and timely medical intervention are essential to containing the outbreak and protecting vulnerable populations.
(Input from various resources)
(Rehash/Susmita Bhandary/MSM)
