New variant of chickenpox inflicting virus in India; know signs of Clade 9 and prevention suggestions

A brand new variant of chickenpox specifically Clade 9 has been detected within the nation. The National Institute of Virology (NIV) has discovered the presence of Clade 9 variant of chickenpox-causing varicella-zoster virus (VZV) for the primary time in India; the stated variant is extra widespread in nations like Germany, UK and US. Varicella-zoster virus is without doubt one of the 9 herpes viruses and causes chickenpox in kids, teenagers and shingles in adults. In India, to this point Clade 1 and Clade 5 have been discovered, however Clade 9 has been detected for the primary time. (Also learn: Monkeypox or Chickenpox? Doctors explain the difference in symptoms)

What is Clade 9?

Clade 9 is a variant of varicella zoster virus (VZV) that causes chickenpox, a standard childhood sickness, says Dr Vineeta Taneja – Director – Internal Medicine – Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh.

Common strains of Varicella zoster in India

“Varicella zoster is a virus which causes chickenpox in younger population and shingles in adults. Clade 1 and 5 were the variants of varicella zoster known to cause infection in Indian population. But in a recent survey, it was found that Clade 9 which is the dominant strain in western countries, has been found in circulation in the Indian subcontinent too,” says Dr Tushar Tayal, Consultant- Internal Medicine, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram.

What are its signs?

Some of the signs of Clade 9 contains rash, fever, lack of urge for food, headache, fatigue and an total sense of sick well being, provides Dr Taneja.

“The chicken pox rash appears 2-3 weeks after exposure to the virus. Prior to appearance of rash, patient develops fever, body ache and headache. The rash appears in form of bumps called papules followed by small fluid-filled blisters called vesicles which eventually heal with formation of scabs. The fever settles 1-2 days after the appearance of rash. The entire process happens over a period of 2 weeks and the person is infective to others 2 days prior to onset of rash and the infectivity continue till scab formation,” says Dr Tayal.

Is clade 9 extra extreme than earlier variants?

“Presently there is no difference in the severity of infection with Clade 9 as compared to the previous variants,” provides Dr Tayal.

Prevention suggestions

Dr Vineeta Taneja says the simplest method to forestall chickenpox is getting vaccinated. One also needs to apply good hygiene and common handwashing also can assist.

“In many countries, including the United States and several European countries, the Varicella vaccine is routinely administered to children as part of the immunization schedule. If you’re in a region where this vaccine is available, make sure you and your children are up-to-date with their vaccinations,” says Dr Taneja.

“Practicing good hygiene can help reduce the risk of VZV transmission. Encourage regular handwashing with soap and water, especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching the face. Avoid close contact with individuals who have chickenpox or shingles,” she provides.

Here are different prevention tricks to comply with:

Isolation: If somebody in your family has chickenpox, attempt to isolate them from others, particularly people who’re at excessive threat of extreme problems, corresponding to pregnant ladies, newborns, and people with weakened immune methods.

Cover coughs and sneezes: Teach correct cough and sneeze etiquette to attenuate the unfold of respiratory droplets that will comprise the virus. Use a tissue or your elbow to cowl your mouth and nostril when coughing or sneezing.

Avoid sharing private objects: Refrain from sharing private objects like towels, clothes, and utensils with somebody who has chickenpox till they’re not contagious.

Maintain a wholesome way of life: A powerful immune system will help forestall infections. Ensure you and your loved ones members keep a wholesome way of life with a balanced weight-reduction plan, common train, and ample sleep.

Seek medical recommendation: If you or your little one is uncovered to chickenpox or develops signs, search medical recommendation promptly. There could also be particular suggestions from healthcare professionals to handle the state of affairs, particularly when you or your little one are at increased threat of problems.

Post-exposure prophylaxis: In some instances, post-exposure prophylaxis with Varicella-Zoster Immune Globulin (VZIG) could also be really helpful for people at excessive threat of extreme illness after publicity to chickenpox. Consult a healthcare supplier for steering.

Treatment

Antiviral medicines: Antiviral medicine, corresponding to acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir, are generally prescribed to handle VZV infections. These medicines will help scale back the severity and period of signs, in addition to the chance of problems. Treatment ought to ideally begin inside 72 hours of the rash onset for maximal effectiveness.

Pain administration: Pain, itching, and discomfort are widespread signs of VZV infections. Over-the-counter ache relievers like acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine (NSAIDs) will help alleviate these signs.

Calamine lotion: Applying calamine lotion to the pores and skin will help relieve itching and discomfort related to chickenpox or shingles rashes.

Cool baths: Taking cool baths or making use of cool, damp compresses to the affected areas could present reduction from itching.

Rest: Rest is essential to assist the physique’s immune response and assist with the therapeutic course of.

Antibiotics: Antibiotics could also be prescribed if a secondary bacterial an infection happens as a complication of scratching the rash.

Topical antivirals: In some instances, topical antiviral lotions or ointments could also be used to handle pores and skin lesions, notably in instances of herpes zoster.

Antiviral prophylaxis: High-risk people, corresponding to these with weakened immune methods, could also be given antiviral medicines as prophylaxis if they’re uncovered to VZV to stop extreme illness. Consult a healthcare supplier for steering.

Eye care: If the attention is affected by herpes zoster (ophthalmic shingles), seek the advice of a watch specialist (ophthalmologist) for correct analysis and remedy.

Pregnant ladies: Special precautions and administration could also be required for pregnant ladies who develop chickenpox or shingles, as these infections can pose dangers to the foetus. Consult a healthcare supplier for steering.

“Treatment of chicken pox is primarily symptomatic. Antivirals may be added for reducing the severity of infection and duration of recovery. Self isolation is extremely important to prevent spread of u infection to unvaccinated population and elderly. Prevention of chicken pox is with help of varicella zoster vaccine which is to be taken in 2 doses 4 months apart,” says Dr Tayal.