COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – The Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency (BHSJ CHA) has confirmed five cases of chickenpox in youth in the area.
Chickenpox is a contagious disease caused by the varicella zoster virus, causing an itchy rash with blisters, fatigue, headache, and fever.
It spreads through the air and contact, with symptoms appearing 10 to 21 days after exposure. People are contagious before the rash shows and until all blisters scab over.
The health agency recommends checking immunization records and getting vaccinated if needed.
Prevention includes avoiding contact with people who have the rash, washing hands often, and getting two doses of the varicella vaccine.
If you have symptoms, isolate yourself and call your doctor. Unvaccinated individuals exposed to chickenpox may lessen symptoms or prevent the illness by getting vaccinated within three to five days of exposure.
More information is available on the BHSJ CHA website https://www.bhsj.org/events/900
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