Deng Deng Akuei, governor of the newly created Aweil East state in South Sudan has called for immediate intervention of the national government to contain the spread of chicken fox to adjacent communities.

“As the state government, we are sensitising people to be careful. We are encouraging people to follow and adhere to medical instructions and advises, especially health education messages. We have also put into place mechanisms to control the spread”, said governor Deng.

Governor said the disease had affected one medical personnel at Malualkon primary health care centre which was recently upgraded to state a hospital during the visit of national health minister, Riek Gai Kok.

Chicken pox, according to the description of clinical officers, is a very contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It causes a blister-like rash, itching, tiredness, and fever. The rash appears first on the stomach, back and face and can spread over the entire body causing between 250 and 500 itchy blisters.

Chicken pox can be serious, especially in babies, adults, and people with weakened immune systems. The best way to prevent chickenpox is to get the chickenpox vaccine.