For Immediate Release
March 2, 2006

Contact: Howard Sutter
 (714) 834-2178

Chickenpox Cases Provide Reminder Of the Importance of Vaccination

(Santa Ana) –  Parents are encouraged to ensure their children have been vaccinated against chickenpox (varicella) following recent reports of chickenpox cases in several local school districts.

“Chickenpox is highly infectious and the virus that causes chickenpox spreads from person to person through direct contact or through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes,” said Dr. Hildy Meyers, Acting Health Officer. “While many people think of chickenpox as a mild childhood illness, it can be more serious for some people, so it is important that children and adults are properly vaccinated to increase their protection against chickenpox.”

Chickenpox causes a blister-like rash on the skin, usually on the face, scalp or trunk. People with chickenpox can be contagious from one to two days before the rash appears and the illness typically lasts from five to ten days. Anyone with chickenpox should stay home until the rash has completely crusted over, which is usually about five days from the time the rash starts. High fever, severe itching, dehydration or headache may also occur. More severe complications from chickenpox can occur, especially among those with weakened immune systems. Pregnant women who have not had chickenpox before should avoid contact with anyone who has chickenpox.

Vaccination against chickenpox is recommended for children and adults who have not had chickenpox and have not been previously vaccinated. People who have previously had chickenpox or who have been vaccinated occasionally still get chickenpox, but they usually have a milder illness without fever. Vaccinated persons who get the milder form of chickenpox may still spread the disease to others who are not protected, so they should be kept at home until any blisters have formed scabs or if there are no blisters present, until no new spots or bumps are forming. Contact your healthcare provider to discuss whether you and your child should be vaccinated, or call the Health Care Agency’s Health Referral Line at (800) 564-8448 to find out where you can get vaccinated.

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