Chickenpox Outbreak at Thammasat University Prompts Online Classes and Vaccine Prioritization

A chickenpox outbreak at Thammasat University’s Rangsit campus has led to a shift to online learning and renewed focus on vaccination efforts in Thailand. As of March 6, 2026, 23 cases have been confirmed, prompting the Faculty of Political Science to extend online classes until March 23, 2026, to curb the spread of the virus.

Outbreak Details and Response

The Department of Disease Control (DDC) launched an investigation on March 3, 2026, after being alerted to the outbreak at two faculties on the Rangsit campus . An emergency investigation team was dispatched, working with regional and provincial public health offices.

Initial investigations point to a student camp held between February 13th and 16th, 2026, as a key source of the outbreak . Approximately 66 participants, including students from various provinces, attended the camp. One participant developed symptoms and was asked to exit, but the camp continued. Currently, 22 cases are considered suspected, with one laboratory-confirmed case .

Most patients are experiencing fever, rash, and clear fluid-filled blisters, characteristic symptoms of chickenpox . No severe symptoms or complications have been reported, and all participants are under surveillance.

The Faculty of Political Science announced the shift to online learning via MS Teams or Zoom on March 4, 2026, to ensure the safety of students and faculty . All undergraduate classes at the Rangsit Center will remain online until March 23, 2026, and gatherings are restricted to essential activities with strict screening measures .

National Chickenpox Statistics

From January 1 to March 4, 2026, Thailand has recorded 10,560 cases of chickenpox with no reported deaths . Approximately 1.97 percent of patients (208 individuals) required hospitalization. The highest incidence rates are among school-aged children, specifically those aged 5-9 years (76.40 per 100,000 population), followed by those aged 10-14 years (55.90 per 100,000 population), and 0-4 years (49.10 per 100,000 population) .

Vaccination Efforts

The Subcommittee on Immunization has prioritized chickenpox vaccination as the seventh priority for inclusion in Thailand’s national immunization program . The proposed vaccine schedule includes two doses for children aged 1 year and 4-6 years.

Prevention and Recommendations

The DDC recommends strict adherence to preventative measures, including frequent handwashing, avoiding sharing personal items, and wearing masks when sick . Individuals experiencing fever, rash, or blisters should seek immediate medical attention and avoid close contact with others.

Pregnant women are advised to avoid close contact with individuals who are sick with chickenpox due to potential risks to the fetus.

For more information, contact the Department of Disease Control hotline at 1422.