Kerala is on high alert as chickenpox cases are rising quickly in Kollam district. Over the past week alone, health authorities have confirmed more than 100 new cases, with numbers continuing to climb. This sudden spike has prompted officials to take swift action to prevent further spread. But why is chickenpox, often considered a seasonal illness, circulating now? And what early signs should you watch for to know if you or someone around you might have it?Chickenpox Cases Surge Rapidly In KollamWhile chickenpox usually appears more often during the summer months, health officials say unpredictable weather during the rainy season is also playing a role in this surge. Authorities warn that the disease can lead to serious complications in children, teens, older adults, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems. Residents are being urged to follow preventive measures and seek medical attention promptly to contain the outbreak.What Is Chickenpox And How Does It Spread?Chickenpox, caused by the varicella-zoster virus, is extremely contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets or direct contact with someone who is infected. In children, it often starts as a mild rash accompanied by fever, but it can spread quickly in crowded areas.The virus can also be transmitted through coughing or sneezing, and it is most infectious a day or two before the rash appears and in the early days of the rash. In individuals with weak immunity, the dormant virus may reactivate later in life, causing shingles (herpes zoster).Why Is Kollam Facing A Chickenpox Outbreak?The varicella-zoster virus spreads very easily through coughs, sneezes, or close contact with an infected person. Kollam’s warm, humid post-monsoon climate creates ideal conditions for the virus to multiply. While the first wave of cases was mostly among children, doctors now warn that adults are also increasingly vulnerable, according to The New Indian Express.How To Detect Chickenpox Symptoms Early?Spotting chickenpox early means looking for general warning signs like fever, fatigue, headache, and loss of appetite, which usually appear one to two days before the rash. The rash itself starts as tiny red spots that later form fluid-filled blisters and eventually scab over. Paying attention to these early symptoms—especially after known exposure—can help identify the infection sooner.How To Spot The Chickenpox RashThe first rash usually shows up as small red bumps on the face, chest, or back. These bumps quickly turn into blisters filled with fluid, which are contagious. Over a few days, the blisters break and crust over, forming scabs. It’s common to see spots, blisters, and scabs all at the same time, according to the CDC.Stages Of ChickenpoxThe Mayo Clinic explains that chickenpox progresses in three main stages:Incubation Stage (10–21 days): After exposure, the virus remains inactive. Infected individuals typically show no symptoms during this period.Prodromal Stage (1–2 days): Early signs include fever, tiredness, headache, loss of appetite, and body aches. This is also when the virus can start spreading to others.Rash Stage (5–10 days): Red, itchy spots appear first on the face and chest, spreading across the body. These spots develop into fluid-filled blisters that scab over within a few days. Mild fever, itching, and discomfort are common during this stage.According to the Cleveland Clinic, complications are uncommon but can include pneumonia, brain inflammation (encephalitis), and bacterial skin infections. Vulnerable groups, such as infants, pregnant women, older adults, and people with weakened immunity are at higher risk of severe illness.
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