Chickenpox cases raise concern

Lester Calder said while the virus was usually without complication, for some people chickenpox could be severe. Photo / Sarah Bicknell

Health authorities yesterday moved to prevent an outbreak of chickenpox in Hawke's Bay.

The move comes with at least seven cases reported in Central Hawke's Bay. While not a large number, it is more than normal, indicating more will emerge during the next few days.

While cases didn't have to be reported, there was "anecdotal evidence" of spread to other areas, Medical Officer of Health Dr Lester Calder said. Statistics show 85 per cent of those who come in contact with chickenpox catch it. A viral infection most common in children and at this time of the year, it is highly infectious, from two to three days before spots appear to several days after they start disappearing.

Those with symptoms are being asked to keep away from public places, including schools.

Dr Calder said while the virus was usually without complication, for some people chickenpox could be severe. "For women who are pregnant and not immune to chickenpox, newborn babies and people known to have a weakened immune system chickenpox can cause serious complications," he said.

It started with a fever and a feeling of being generally unwell, followed by the appearance of itchy spots, usually first on the head and face. Spreading to the trunk and limbs, the spots would change to blisters with a red base, drying and crusting over. The virus was spread by coughing, sneezing and direct contact with weeping blisters. People who got chickenpox might develop shingles (a painful skin rash) later in life.

A soothing skin lotion from a pharmacist could be applied to help relieve itching. Paracetamol could be used to lower temperature and to relieve pain and discomfort. Aspirin or any medicine containing "salicylate" or "salicylic acid" must not be given to children with chickenpox.