Rise in chickenpox cases in France

Chickenpox is on the increase in France – with cases doubled in Pays-de-la-Loire over the past week and higher than average in Ile-de-France, Nouvelle Aquitaine, Grand Est and Hauts-de-France.

The Sentinelles network of French GPs and researchers, which monitors the progress of diseases, noted the increase in cases of chickenpox (varicelle in French) in its reports.

During the week of March 13-19, the chickenpox incidence was estimated at 37 cases per 100,000 inhabitants but had risen to 74 cases in Pays-de-la-Loire.

In all, eight regional outbreak ‘clusters’ were observed, with higher rates in Ile-de-France (50 cases), Nouvelle-Aquitaine (49), Grand Est (47) and Hauts-de-France (40). There were also moderate rates in Brittany (37), Corsica (35) and Occitanie (27).

GPs tell Sentinelles that between 35 and 40% of the patients they see are young children under-five.

Chickenpox is an extremely contagious disease that mainly affects young children, though it can also affect adults who did not have the disease as a child. Symptoms include an itchy, spotty rash and red, raised spots that first appear on the face and chest before spreading.

It is usually mild and clears up in a week or so, but it can be dangerous for some people, such as pregnant women, newborn babies and people with a weakened immune system.

Paracetamol can be given to relieve fever and discomfort but never use anti-inflammatory painkillers such as ibuprofen.