Chickenpox on the rise in Montserrat, concerns Health Officials

Health Officials in Montserrat have conveyed to the public that they are alarmed by the sharp rise in cases of chickenpox on the island as the Ministry of Health and Social Services said that confirmed cases have been on the up in the last seven days, without revealing the exact number of cases recorded.

Citizens have been asked to remain vigilant and stay away from those who display symptoms such as fever, flu, rashes or boils on the body and fatigue, which are telltale signs of having been infected by this contagious virus.

The Ministry of Health and Social Services stated the following, “Chickenpox is usually a mild illness in healthy children and healthy adults with most persons recovering in seven to 14 days. However, certain populations such as infants, pregnant women, the elderly and individuals with weakened immune systems are at risk of severe complications such as bacterial infections of the skin, infection of the lungs and brain, bleeding problems, bloodstream infections and dehydration.”

It is a well-established fact that chickenpox is caused by the Varicella Zoster virus, which is also referred to as human herpesvirus 3. Chickenpox usually affects children and young adults but does not affect those who have contracted the disease before.

Having said that, it is highly contagious in people who have not been affected by the disease previously and have not been vaccinated for it either.

The disease presents with itchy rashes, characterized by small blisters filled with pus. The treatment for chickenpox includes alleviating the symptoms but in case where it is contracted by high-risk individuals, antiviral medication is often prescribed.

Health officials on the island are making efforts to ensure that the spread of the disease is controlled before it begins to disrupt the lives of citizens and have been communicating with civilians to provide them with the information necessary to protect themselves and their families from the viral infection.

Montserrat Healthcare facilities on the island have also taken steps to prepare for any eventuality, making sure that they can respond promptly as the situation develops.