Occupational Varicella outbreak at a Tertiary Care Hospital: An Insight

Authors

  • Abhisek Mishra1, C.M. Singh2, Binod Ku Pati3, Barkha Rani Beck4, Hari Krishnan Ashokan4

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.37506/ijphrd.v11i3.577

Keywords:

Clinical outbreak, Isolation, Chickenpox, Case fatality Rate, Incubation period, Integrated Disease Surveillance Project (IDSP).

Abstract

Varicella is a contagious viral disease which is caused by Varicella Zoster. Nosocomial Varicella is costly for
healthcare settings increasing absenteeism and hampering quality patient care. Human are the only known
susceptible host for this viral illness. The disease is usually acute and self-limiting but occasionally can lead
to complications such as encephalitis, pneumonia, and secondary bacterial infections. Once believed to be
the infection of pediatric age group now gripping mostly adults in a severe manner in health care setting.
The previous vaccination and primary episode of infection are not found to be protective. In India, >30% of
persons >15 years of age are susceptible for this infection. Reports have suggested the airborne transmission
plays a key role in transmission of Varicella Zoster in health care settings
In health care setting the close contact between subclinical cases and susceptible individuals favors the rapid
spread of the disease. Areas like Intensive Care Units (ICUs) are the most focal point of spread as immunity
of admitted individuals are mostly compromised. The closed cubicles and chambers of the resident and
working nursing officers in hospital setting act as a point of focus for the disease spread. Strict isolation
words and quarantine procedures to be followed at institutional level for limiting viral dissemination.
Knowledge building activities like Hand washing, Barrier nursing and mask use to be promoted among all
health care staffs. Institutional policy to be made in order to control any viral outbreaks.

Author Biography

  • Abhisek Mishra1, C.M. Singh2, Binod Ku Pati3, Barkha Rani Beck4, Hari Krishnan Ashokan4

    1Assistant Professor, Dept. of Community and Family Medicine,, 2Professor, Medical Superintendent and Professor,
    Dept. of Community and Family Medicine, 3Associate Professor, Dept. of Microbiology,
    5Nursing Officer, Nursing Officer, AIIMS Patna

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Published

2020-03-26

How to Cite

Occupational Varicella outbreak at a Tertiary Care Hospital: An Insight. (2020). Indian Journal of Public Health Research & Development, 11(3), 7-12. https://doi.org/10.37506/ijphrd.v11i3.577