.bmp)
.bmp)
A new father has died after catching the common children's virus chickenpox at the age of 37.University technician Geraint Hughes had been ill for a week after catching the virus, but doctors warned his wife that chickenpox can be serious for adults - but is rarely fatal.However Geraint, who had an 18-month-old baby, died after developing complications.His wife Rebecca, 31, and their 18-month-old baby daughter were being cared for by relatives at their home in Aberystwyth, West Wales.Pub landlord Martin Dickinson, who was best man at Geraint's wedding five years ago, said: "Nobody can believe what has happened really."Everybody is in shock and heartbroken and devastated by the news. He was a great guy and very down to earth."Geraint worked as a technician in the Institute of Geography and Earth Sciences at at Aberystwyth University.Michael Woods, acting director at the institute, said: "We are shocked and saddened."Geraint was a much valued member of the institute who had, over 19 years, come to play a central role in the life and work of the department."His good humour, professionalism and willingness to help will be greatly missed. Our thoughts are with his family."Chickenpox in adults can cause bacterial infections leading to potentially fatal conditions, such as toxic shock syndrome, but only 20 adults, mostly the elderly, die from the disease in England and Wales each year.The family do not know how Geraint contracted chickenpox but it is believe no other relative had also been affected.A post mortem examination has been held and an inquest opened by the Ceredigion Coroner. Geraint's funeral is due to be held on Saturday.As in the days of Noah...
