An outbreak of varicella (chickenpox) has been confirmed at Sugar Creek Elementary School.
The Montgomery County Health Department is implementing measures recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Indiana Department of Health, with full cooperation of the North Montgomery Community School Corp., to curtail the spread of this viral infection.
For children younger than 13 years, an outbreak is defined as five or more linked cases in at least two separate households. The first case was identified at the end of September, and several additional cases are under investigation. Parents and/or guardians of children attending the school are have been notified and provided detailed guidance.
Symptoms of varicella (chickenpox) can include fever, headache, loss of appetite and an itchy rash that develops small blisters on the head, trunk and subsequently the extremities. Two doses of the varicella vaccine are more than 90% effective at preventing varicella. Occasionally, a vaccinated person may get varicella (chickenpox), but symptoms are typically milder. The varicella virus spreads easily from person to person through the air or from direct contact with someone with varicella (chickenpox).
Anyone who develops varicella symptoms should stay home and seek medical attention. People who are exposed to a case of varicella and are pregnant, immunocompromised or have never had varicella (chickenpox) or the varicella vaccine should contact their healthcare provider.
The CDC recommends that children and adults who have never had varicella receive two doses of vaccine.
Two doses of varicella vaccine or proof of immunity are required of children entering kindergarten in Indiana. With the exception of people who are healthcare workers, pregnant, or immunocompromised, adults born in the United States before 1980 are presumed to be immune. Contact your healthcare provider or the MCHD if you are uncertain about your immunization status.
Most primary healthcare providers and pharmacies offer varicella vaccination. Vaccine also will be provided by the Montgomery County Health Department from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Parents of children who would like to receive the chickenpox vaccine can call the MCHD at 765-364-7255 to schedule an appointment.
More information about chickenpox is available at the www.cdc.gov/chickenpox/index.html or www.in.gov/health/idepd/diseases-and-conditions-resource-page/chickenpox-varicella/.
