Mr. Kriangkrai Tangjitmanesakda, Director of the Medical Office, stated that the office has been monitoring the chickenpox outbreak and has directed all hospitals under the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration to watch the situation closely and implement proactive measures targeting children aged 0-14. An increasing trend in cases has been observed from January to April. Between 1 January and 7 March 2026, there were 752 reported cases of chickenpox, aligning with epidemiological data showing outbreaks typically occur from winter to summer. Children aged 5-9 and 10-14 are the most affected groups, as they gather in schools. The office is conducting proactive School Surveillance by coordinating with the Education Bureau and school networks to screen children at school entrances; any child with fever or beginning rashes or blisters is isolated and parents are immediately notified.
The Medical Office Director added that the "Close-Clean-Avoid" campaign has been emphasized, urging schools to clean shared contact points thoroughly and consider temporarily closing classrooms if many cases are detected to break the chain of transmission. Hospitals have been instructed to establish dedicated screening systems for patients with itchy rashes and fever to separate them from other patients, reducing spread in waiting areas. Medical supplies such as antiviral drugs like Acyclovir and wound care equipment are being stocked sufficiently. Pregnant women are being educated about risks, including potential birth defects. Pregnant women without immunity who have been exposed to infected individuals should see a doctor within 72-96 hours to consider receiving VZIG immunoglobulin or antiviral medication.