Kriangkrai Tangjitmanesakda, Director of the Medical Office, stated that the office has been monitoring the varicella outbreak and has directed all hospitals under the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration to closely watch the situation and take proactive measures among children aged 0-14. There has been an upward trend in cases early this year, from January to April. Between 1 January and 7 March 2026, 752 varicella cases were reported, consistent with epidemiological data showing outbreaks typically occur from winter to early summer. The age groups 5-9 and 10-14 have the highest incidence, as these school-age children gather in educational settings. The office has implemented proactive School Surveillance by coordinating with the Department of Education and school networks to screen children at school entrances. If a child has a fever or begins to show rash or blisters, they are to be isolated and their parents notified immediately.
The director further emphasized the “Close-Clean-Avoid” campaign, urging schools to clean common touchpoints and consider temporarily closing classes if many cases are detected to break the transmission chain. Hospitals are instructed to establish dedicated screening systems for patients exhibiting itchy rashes and fever to separate them from general patients, reducing spread in waiting areas. They are also to ensure sufficient antiviral medications such as Acyclovir and adequate wound care supplies. Pregnant women are to be informed about the risks of varicella, including possible birth defects. Pregnant women without immunity who have been exposed to patients should see a doctor within 72-96 hours to consider receiving varicella-zoster immunoglobulin (VZIG) or antiviral treatment.