Frederick County Health Department/Frederick County Public Schools
Date: 04/09/24
Dear Parent/Guardian:
Recently an individual at Frederick Classical Charter School reported having developed chickenpox (varicella). Normally, chickenpox is a mild illness in childhood. Chickenpox is a very contagious disease caused by a virus. It is easily spread through the air by sneezing and coughing or through contact with someone’s chickenpox sores. The major symptom of the disease is a rash consisting of many small, itching blisters over the body and sometimes in the mouth. Children may also have a fever and generally feel ill.
The period after exposure until development of symptoms is 2-3 weeks. A child can spread the disease 1-2 days before onset of rash develops until all the blisters are crusted over.
Individuals who have previously been immunized and have recently been exposed to chickenpox may also get the chicken pox rash. It is usually presents as a milder case with fewer lesions, and a shorter time for the blisters to scab over. There may or may not be a fever present.
Any exposed person who has NOT been vaccinated for chickenpox or has NOT had the disease is considered unprotected and may develop and spread chickenpox to other unprotected persons. Newborn babies and people with weak immune systems should not be exposed to chickenpox. Pregnant women should advise their health care provider if they have been exposed. Varicella (chickenpox) vaccine is routinely recommended for all children 12 months of age and older for unvaccinated persons following exposure to or contact with someone with chickenpox. If the Varicella vaccine is given within 72 hours of exposure to chickenpox, it may prevent or reduce the severity of the disease. If your child is susceptible or you are unsure, please call your child’s health care provider to discuss vaccination.
We need your cooperation in decreasing the spread of the disease. If you suspect your child has chickenpox, keep him/her home from school during the infectious period. Your child may return to school after all blisters are dry and crusted, usually 6-7 days.
For your information a Chickenpox Fact Sheet is linked here. If you have any questions, please contact the health room at 240-236-1203.
Sincerely,
Scott Conroy Jessica Medghalchi
Principal Registered Nurse