Chickenpox
โรคอีสุกอีใส
Chickenpox, also known as varicella, is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus that spreads through airborne transmission, typically throughout the year but more commonly during the colder months. The incubation period is approximately 10-21 days, during which the infected person can spread the disease from 48 hours before the rash appears until all the blisters have crusted over.
Common symptoms include fever, headache, general body aches, and a characteristic rash starting as red spots and progressing to clear fluid-filled blisters. The rash can appear on the face, trunk, and even in the mouth or genital area. After recovery, the virus remains dormant in nerve tissue and can later cause shingles (herpes zoster).
In Thailand, in the year 2023, there were 18,382 reported cases of chickenpox, with an incidence rate of 27.78 per 100,000 population. The highest affected age groups were children aged 0-4 years (22.4%) and 10-14 years (15.7%). Globally, studies have shown that children under 5 years old are at the highest risk of infection.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends initiating chickenpox vaccination since 1998. Vaccination can significantly reduce the risk of infection, shorten the duration of illness, and lessen its severity if contracted. Studies have demonstrated that after receiving one dose of the vaccine, protection against the disease is approximately 76-85%, rising to nearly 100% after completing two doses. Vaccination also reduces the likelihood of hospitalization by more than 95% and maintains high long-term immunity of over 90% for up to 10 years.
Indications for vaccination include:
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Individuals without a history of chickenpox illness or laboratory evidence of immunity.
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Healthcare personnel lacking prior chickenpox history or evidence of immunity.
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Those with a history of exposure to chickenpox and uncertain vaccination status or no evidence of immunity should receive the vaccine within 96 hours of exposure.
For consultations or further information about chickenpox vaccination, please contact Chiang Mai Wellness Clinic through the following channels: Chiang Mai Wellness Clinic