Chickenpox cases remain above normal levels for the time of year.

There have been 18 cases reported to the island’s Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit by doctors’ offices and labs in 2017.

A Ministry of Health spokeswoman said: “This is notably higher than the seven reported by this time in 2016 and approximately the same as the 17 reported in 2015. The five-year average for this time of year is nine. Clusters of cases in the community continue to be reported.

“The ESU takes this opportunity to encourage reporting of chickenpox cases — and other notifiable conditions — by all healthcare providers.

“We also remind families of the importance of vaccinating children against preventable diseases like chickenpox. The discomfort, health risks and loss of school and work days can be avoided.”

Vaccinations can be done at doctors’ surgeries or a Department of Health clinic. E-mail childhealth@gov.bm or call 278-6460 for more information.