Chickenpox Outbreak at Thammasat University Prompts Online Classes

BANGKOK – The Department of Disease Control (DDC) in Thailand is investigating a chickenpox outbreak at two faculties of Thammasat University’s Rangsit campus, leading to a temporary shift to online learning from March 3 to March 6, 2026. Authorities are tracing cases linked to a student camp held in mid-February.

Urgent Investigation Launched

The DDC initiated an urgent disease investigation after the outbreak prompted the university to move classes online. Dr. Montien Kanasawat, director-general of the DDC, updated the media on Wednesday, March 5, 2026, following the dispatch of an emergency investigation team on Tuesday. The DDC is collaborating with the Office of Disease Prevention and Control Region 4 and the Pathum Thani Provincial Public Health Office to manage the situation .

Student Camp Identified as Potential Source

Initial findings suggest a student camp held from February 13–16, 2026, involving approximately 66 participants, including around 60 students from various provinces, may be linked to the outbreak. One participant reportedly developed chickenpox symptoms and was asked to leave the camp, but activities continued .

Confirmed Cases

As of early March 2026, approximately 13 university students and 10 school pupils have been reported ill and are receiving treatment . Officials are working to identify the provinces to which the school pupils returned to facilitate local public health responses.

Nationwide Trends and Prevention

Dr. Kanasawat emphasized the importance of personal health education and preventative measures, noting that simply isolating a sick individual may not be sufficient. While the current outbreak is concerning, he stated that approximately 10,000 chickenpox cases have been recorded nationwide over the first two months of 2026, a figure consistent with the same period last year .

How Chickenpox Spreads and Symptoms

Chickenpox is easily transmitted through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing, as well as through contact with a patient’s bodily fluids. Common symptoms include a rash, blisters, and fever. Children typically experience milder symptoms, while adults may have more severe illness .

Prevention and Treatment

The DDC recommends avoiding close contact with infected individuals and practicing good personal hygiene, including frequent handwashing. Vaccination is available but is currently optional and self-funded. Most people acquire immunity after having chickenpox once, but immunity can wane over time, leaving unvaccinated or previously uninfected individuals at risk .

Faculty Response

On March 3, 2026, the Faculty of Political Science at Thammasat University announced the switch to online classes via MS Teams or Zoom for all undergraduate students at the Rangsit campus. The faculty stated it would closely monitor the situation and implement further measures if necessary .

Incubation Period and Complications

The incubation period for chickenpox is typically two to three weeks. Symptoms commence with a flat red rash that develops into blisters, often appearing on the face, torso, and back, and can too occur in the mouth. Complications can include secondary bacterial skin infections and, in individuals with weakened immune systems, infections of the lungs, brain, or liver. Pregnant women in the first trimester are also at risk of complications affecting the fetus .

Home Care and When to Seek Medical Attention

Mild cases of chickenpox can be managed at home with rest and paracetamol to reduce fever. Aspirin should be avoided due to the risk of serious complications. Patients should stay hydrated and use anti-itch medication as needed. Individuals experiencing high fever, an extensive rash, shortness of breath, seizures, drowsiness, or underlying health conditions should seek immediate medical attention .