BANGKOK, Thailand – The Department of Disease Control (DDC) has reported an increase in chickenpox infections during the early months of the year, with more than 10,000 cases recorded nationwide. Data shows 10,560 cumulative infections between January 1 and March 4, 2026. No deaths have been reported, though 208 patients, or about 1.97 percent of cases, required hospitalization.
Health authorities said school-aged children are the most affected group. The highest infection rate has been recorded among children aged 5 to 9 years, followed by those aged 10 to 14 and children aged 0 to 4. Officials said transmission often occurs in schools and other places where children gather, as the virus spreads through coughing and sneezing.
A recent cluster was detected at an educational institution in Pathum Thani province, with 23 cases reported, including 22 suspected infections and 1 laboratory-confirmed case. Most patients experienced fever and fluid-filled blisters, which are common symptoms of the disease. No severe cases have been reported, and health officials are continuing surveillance while implementing disease control measures. The incubation period of chickenpox typically ranges from 10 to 21 days.
The DDC has advised infected individuals to remain at home until blisters dry and form scabs to reduce the risk of transmission. Health authorities also recommend frequent handwashing, avoiding the sharing of personal items, and wearing masks when experiencing illness. Those who develop fever along with rashes or fluid-filled blisters are advised to seek medical care and avoid close contact with others. Officials are also reviewing the inclusion of the chickenpox vaccine in the national immunization program, with a proposed two-dose schedule for children at ages 1 and 4 to 6 years. (NNT)
