In a follow-up on the chickenpox outbreak in Faisalabad, Pakistan, Punjab health officials told the Express Tribune that over 300 cases of chickenpox have been reported in the last four months mostly among adults, and the disease has claimed 18 lives in Faisalabad and its adjoining districts.
The official, speaking on the condition of anonymity said people do not get vaccinated against chickenpox as it is costly. Reports of chickenpox vaccine shortages also plague the region.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says chickenpox is a very contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV).
It causes a blister-like rash, itching, tiredness, and fever. The rash appears first on the stomach, back and face and can spread over the entire body causing between 250 and 500 itchy blisters.
Chickenpox can be serious, especially in babies, adults, and people with weakened immune systems. The best way to prevent chickenpox is to get the chickenpox vaccine.
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