Quintana Roo Nears 1,000 Chickenpox Cases

Chetumal — Health authorities in Quintana Roo are observing an increase in chickenpox cases, with 992 cumulative infections reported through the first week of November. Officials have issued a call to reinforce vaccination efforts, especially for young children, who are at higher risk of infection and of developing complications if they contract the disease.

One week prior, the Secretary of Health, through the Directorate General of Epidemiology, reported 976 cases, representing an increase of 16 people infected with chickenpox. As data from earlier weeks is reviewed, the rising trend is confirmed; between October 12 and 18, infections reached 950, which was 42 cases more than the total from the preceding week.

Chickenpox is an infection caused by a virus that typically provokes skin rashes, itching, and small, fluid-filled blisters. It is a highly contagious illness for people who have not been vaccinated, including those who have already had the disease. A vaccine is currently available that protects children against chickenpox. Those who wish to be vaccinated can visit public health centers and hospitals as part of the Universal Vaccination Program in Quintana Roo.

One of the most evident signs of infection is the eruption of blisters all over the body; however, these appear between 10 and 21 days after exposure to the virus. Other symptoms include: fever, loss of appetite, headache, tiredness, and a general feeling of being unwell.

Once the rashes appear, the disease progresses through three phases:

1. Raised red or pink bumps that emerge over several days.
2. Small, fluid-filled blisters that form in approximately one day and then break open.
3. Scabs that cover the open blisters and take several days to heal.

Medical experts estimate that the chickenpox vaccine offers complete protection against the virus for nearly 98 percent of people. Even when the vaccine does not provide complete protection, it significantly reduces the severity of the illness. The vaccine is recommended for young children, older children who were not vaccinated, and adults who were never vaccinated or who never contracted chickenpox.