More than 10,000 cases of the herpes zoster virus, which causes chickenpox, were recorded in Queensland last year, and similar levels were seen in 2020.
The report added that the virus has a reproduction number (R-value) of 13, which means that an infected person can transmit the virus to up to 13 other people, depending on immunity levels.
Queensland Health, a group of services aimed at achieving good health and well-being for all Queenslanders, said the virus can spread easily between people who have not had the disease or have not been vaccinated once morest it.
She added that she believes the numbers of chickenpox cases have remained high due to a range of reasons, including that young children are still learning basic hygiene practices.
Chickenpox is transmitted through close contact, either through air or direct contact with fluid from the blisters it causes.
