UK P&I Club Addresses Herpes Zoster and Crew Well-being in Maritime Environments

UK P&I has recently encountered a number of cases of shingles among crew members, leading to ship deviation, medical repatriation, and treatment abroad. Shingles, caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, can be a painful and debilitating condition. The recent cases included crew members experiencing symptoms such as eye styes, facial inflammation, and skin irritation, leading to hospitalization and repatriation.

The UK Health Security Agency explains that when someone contracts chickenpox, the virus can remain dormant in nerve cells for years or even decades, leading to the reactivation of the virus and the development of shingles. Symptoms of shingles include abnormal skin sensations, pain, headache, fever, and a vesicular rash. It is important to take a full history of onset and symptoms, avoid contact with susceptible individuals, and follow proper hygiene and clothing practices to prevent the spread of the virus.

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in managing shingles effectively. Antiviral medications can help reduce the severity and duration of the outbreak, and pain management is also an essential aspect of treatment. The World Health Organisation recommends starting oral antiviral therapy within 72 hours of rash onset and seeking medical advice if there is an increase in temperature, as this may indicate bacterial infection.

Source .