Amid a surge in chickenpox cases reported in Nagpur in 2023, health experts are urging citizens to stay alert. According to Dr. Vasant Khalatkar, the national president of the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP)-2025, Nagpur witnessed 659 cases of chickenpox in 2023, a significant increase from previous years where the number was under 200. Dr. Khalatkar noted a concerning shift in disease dynamics and highlighted that his daily OPD observes a steady influx of 3-4 chickenpox patients. He also mentioned similar trends among his colleagues in Central India. Stressing the importance of proactive surveillance, vaccination, and public health measures in mitigating chickenpox risks, Dr. Khalatkar urged citizens not to miss their children’s regular vaccination schedules.
Epidemiologist Anand Thatte explained that the resurgence of chickenpox cases can be attributed to viral variations, which refer to genetic mutations or alterations in the structure of viruses, resulting in the emergence of new strains. He elaborated that “These variations can affect the virulence, transmission, and effectiveness of existing treatments or preventive measures, thereby influencing disease outcomes,” he said.
