By NewsDesk @infectiousdiseasenews
In a follow-up on the chickenpox outbreak in Taiwan, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says the chickenpox epidemic is heating up, reminding the public to be alert.
They reported 940 outpatient visits for chickenpox last week, which was higher than the previous two weeks and the highest during the same period in the past 4 years.
Chickenpox occurs in winter and early spring and is highly contagious. It can be transmitted through skin contact, air or droplets, or blisters and mucous secretions. The incubation period is about 2 to 3 weeks. Babies, pregnant women, adults, and people with immunodeficiency are at high risk of chickenpox complications like secondary bacterial infections, pneumonia, encephalitis and death.
The Department of Health reminds that varicella vaccination is the most effective way to prevent chickenpox. It can also reduce the chance of serious complications caused by chickenpox infection in children and adults.
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