The Health Ministry confirms that several cases of the Chickenpox virus were reported at the Five Rivers Secondary School.

In a statement it says measures have been taken including closure and sanitisation of the affected classrooms, as well as training of the school’s Parent Teacher Association.

This training included information relating to the clinical signs and symptoms of chickenpox, as well as preventative measures.

The office of the County Medical Officer of Health was also alerted, in keeping with the long standing protocols for the reporting of infectious diseases.

The Ministry says while chickenpox is endemic to T&T, there may be the likelihood of an increase in the number of cases occasionally.

These increases occur particularly within high-risk areas such as Schools, Prisons, Homes for the Elderly and Children.

The Chickenpox virus usually begins with flu-like symptoms including:

• Fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Headache and sore throat
• Feeling sick, tired and sluggish

Within a few days, red swollen spots or bumps may appear.

The bumps can spread over the whole body, even inside the mouth, eyelids or genital area, and turn into pimple like blisters filled with clear or cloudy fluid.

The blisters can break open, often leaking fluid.

The public is further advised that good hygiene practices can prevent and reduce the spread of Chickenpox.

These practices include:

• Washing hands regularly with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use alcohol-based hand sanitisers (containing at least 70% alcohol).
• Regular cleaning and sanitising of high touched surfaces (e.g. door knobs, countertops, desks).
• Avoid sharing personal items like utensils, water bottles, towels and wash rags with others,
• Avoid touching your face and eyes,
• Avoiding close contact with persons who display symptoms of infectious viruses
• Keeping children away from school or staying away from work if you are ill.