Kerala On High Alert: Chickenpox Outbreak Ravages Kollam, Expert Urge Everyone To Get Vaccinated - Who Is At High Risk?

Kerala is on high alert as a chickenpox outbreak hits Kollam. Experts urge vaccination and caution, especially for children, the elderly, and pregnant women.

Kerala health authorities have announced a high alert in Kollam district after the sudden outbreak of chickenpox, which is spreading rapidly across several localities. According to the data of the health department, about a hundred confirmed cases have been noted in the last few days., Provoking officials to take important preventive measures and start performing public awareness campaigns.

Why Kollam Is Vulnerable

The sudden outbreak of chickenpox has had a lot of negative impact on school-going children, but according to the doctors, the infection is now spreading to adults as well. The varicella -Zoster virus which is the reason behind chickenpox is very contagious and can spread easily through coughing, sneezing, and direct contact with the infected person.Kollam is a highly populated area and because of its humid post, monsoon climate, the chances of virus to multiply and spread easily gets increase.

Chickenpox Vaccination And Prevention

According to the health authorities, the situation right now is under control but caution that next two weeks are critical. District surveillance team have been assigned to keep an eye regarding the spread, and the school have been noticed to maintain strict hygiene and isolate students showing symptoms such as fever, itchy rashes and tiredness.

Doctors are suggesting people to get vaccinated, especially those people who never had chickenpox before. Although the vaccine is not the part of Kerala’s routine immunisation program, it’s available in most private hospitals. Doctors suggested that vaccination can prevent severe illness and also reduce the risk of problems like pneumonia or encephalitis.

Chickenpox Outbreak In Kerala: Who Is At Higher Risk

Expert suggested that infants, pregnant women, elders, and people who have weak immune system are at the higher risk of getting infected. Pregnant woman who are suffering from chickenpox can face complication which may affect both the mother and baby, which makes preventive vaccination and early medical consultation important.

Doctor quoted that people take chickenpox very lightly, but for vulnerable groups, it can be really life-threatening. Keeping yourself isolated, maintaining hygiene and getting vaccinated on time are the best steps you can take to protect yourself from the contagious virus.

As Kollam is fighting against the chickenpox, outbreak, authorities are appealing to public not to get panic, but stay alert and follow medical advices given by the doctors.