Chickenpox (varicella) in Pakistan

What is the current situation?

Health officials in Pakistan have reported a large outbreak of chickenpox, also known as varicella. Cases in children and adults, including deaths, have been reported in 10 districts. More than half of the cases have occurred in the Faisalabad District.

What can travelers do to protect themselves?

Chickenpox can be serious, especially in babies, adults, and those with weakened immune systems. CDC recommends that travelers to Pakistan who have not had chickenpox protect themselves by making sure they are vaccinated.  Anyone over the age of 12 months who has not had chickenpox or the vaccine and does not have contraindications to the chickenpox vaccine should get the vaccine: 1 dose for children age 12 months through 3 years and 2 doses for persons age 4 years and older.   

Learn more about chickenpox, how to prevent it, and what to do if you think you are infected at CDC’s Chickenpox (varicella) page.

Traveler Information

• Health Information for Travelers to Pakistan
• Chickenpox and the Vaccine (Shot) to Prevent It: Fact Sheet for Parents

Clinician Information

• Chickenpox (varicella) for health care professionals
• Varicella (Chickenpox) information in Infectious Diseases Related to Travel (Yellow Book)