Viral exanthema hits 32 students at Negros Occidental school

INQUIRER FILES

BACOLOD CITY — Viral exanthema, also known as “makayha,” an eruptive skin rash often related to a viral infection, has hit 32 students at the Negros Occidental High School (NOHS).

Dr. Sheila Blancia, NOHS medical officer III, said on Thursday, Oct. 17, that if children show symptoms of the virus, they should seek medical attention.

“The student should also stay home to avoid infecting others,” she said.

“Parents should inform the student’s teacher so distance learning materials can be sent so the child’s studies are not interrupted,” she added.

Viral exanthema can cause red or pink spots on the skin over large parts of the body, accompanied by fever, headaches, sore throat, and fatigue.

Viral infections can be highly contagious so anyone with a viral exanthema should avoid close contact with others until the rash is gone.

Blancia said the viral exanthema cases at NOHS started in September.

She stressed the need to observe proper hygiene, such as frequent hand washing and wearing masks.

“It can be transmitted through saliva, touching infected objects and is more likely to spread in crowded places,” Blancia said.