Ministry of Health Advises Public of Contained Chickenpox Cluster at Clarevue Psychiatric Hospital

The Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs wishes to advise the public that a cluster of varicella (commonly known as chickenpox) cases has recently been identified in two male wards at the Clarevue Psychiatric Hospital. At this time, the situation remains confined to those wards, and appropriate public health measures have been implemented to limit further spread and protect both patients and staff.

The Ministry wishes to reassure the public that established infection prevention and control measures were initiated promptly following identification of the cases. These measures include active surveillance, quarantine, isolation, enhanced environmental cleaning and disinfection, restriction of unnecessary movement within affected areas, monitoring of exposed individuals, and ongoing clinical assessment of patients and staff.

Public health officials continue to closely monitor the situation in collaboration with the management and clinical teams at Clarevue Psychiatric Hospital. At this time, there is no indication of widespread transmission beyond the affected wards.

Varicella is a highly contagious viral illness caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It is typically characterized by fever, fatigue, and an itchy blister-like rash. Transmission occurs primarily through respiratory droplets or direct contact with fluid from the skin lesions of an infected person.

In some instances, exposure to persons with herpes zoster (shingles), which is caused by reactivation of the same virus, may also result in transmission of varicella to susceptible individuals. Periodic clusters and outbreaks of varicella are not uncommon, particularly in congregate settings where close contact may facilitate transmission. Varicella is generally mild, particularly in children.

Members of the public are reminded that vaccination remains one of the most effective means of preventing varicella infection and reducing the severity of illness. The varicella vaccine is available for adults and children alike through public health clinics across Antigua and Barbuda. Parents and guardians are encouraged to ensure that children are appropriately immunized in keeping with the national immunization schedule. Individuals who are uncertain of their vaccination status are encouraged to consult their healthcare provider or nearest health centre.

The Ministry also encourages the public to continue practicing general infection prevention measures, including:
Frequent handwashing with soap and water;
Covering coughs and sneezes;
Avoiding close contact with persons who are ill;
Keeping infected individuals at home or away from public settings until lesions have crusted over; and
Contacting a healthcare provider or nearest health centre if symptoms consistent with varicella develop.

Persons experiencing fever and rash illness are encouraged to avoid unnecessary contact with others, particularly elderly persons, pregnant women, newborns, and immunocompromised individuals.

The Ministry of Health continues to maintain active surveillance and will provide further updates should additional public health concerns arise.

Advertise with the mоѕt vіѕіtеd nеwѕ ѕіtе іn Antigua!
We offer fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages.
Contact us at [email protected]