A dramatic surge in chickenpox cases has been noted in sanctuary cities around the country including the largest Chicago, with nearly 400 cases reported this year, marking a significant uptick in the past four weeks alone.

This is a stark increase compared to the city's average of 53 cases per year from 2005 to 2022, according to a health alert released by the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH).

So, what could be the cause behind this sudden surge in cases?  The answer may be more alarming than you think.

Recent reports reveal that many of these cases can be traced back to unvaccinated migrants who have crossed the southern border into the United States seeking asylum. These individuals, who are not required to receive routine vaccinations upon arrival, have been bused to several sanctuary cities including Chicago, where they have contributed to the overwhelming influx of migrants.

In fact, since August 31, 2022, over 25,000 migrants have arrived in the Windy City, placing a strain on already limited resources.

Chickenpox, an itchy and uncomfortable illness caused by the varicella-zoster virus, is easily spread when individuals have not received the vaccine or previously been infected. This is the case for many of the unvaccinated migrants who have been brought across the southern border. And while chickenpox is often mild and non-life-threatening, it can lead to serious health problems such as infected skin, dehydration, pneumonia, or even death in rare cases.

The Mayo Clinic reports that the best way to prevent chickenpox is through vaccination, and thanks to high vaccination rates among Americans, there has been a decline in cases since the vaccine was introduced in 1995. However, with unvaccinated individuals being brought into major cities like Chicago and other sanctuary cities, the risk of outbreaks and the spread of other illnesses, such as measles, mumps, rubella, and polio, increases significantly.

In response to the rise in chickenpox cases, the CDPH has stated that they are working to provide infection control guidance to shelters where many of these migrants are being housed. But with such a high number of migrants entering the city, it is a daunting task to prevent the spread of this highly contagious illness.

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• FEDS ARE FORCED TO SHUT DOWN SOUTHERN BORDER BRIDGES OVER MASSIVE IMMIGRATION SURGE

The Chicago’s health officials are also taking steps to protect the local community, stating that most Chicagoans are not at risk of infection due to the high vaccination rates against chickenpox and other illnesses. However, the department is providing guidance to schools and parents on how to handle potential exposures, including reviewing vaccination records of close contacts and determining if any children need to stay home from school.

It is clear the influx of unvaccinated migrants is not only putting a strain on resources, but also posing a significant health risk to both themselves and the communities they are being brought into.

Many health officials believe the lack of vaccination requirements for those seeking asylum is a major concern, and it is essential for the government to address this issue for the safety and well-being of all Americans.