Varicella (ChickenPox)
- ChickenPox is a very contagious, common childhood disease.
- It is usually mild, but it can be serious, especially in young
infants and adults.
- ChickenPox usually causes 250-500 itchy blisters
- ChickenPox causes fever and tiredness, and usually lasts 4-5 days.
How is ChickenPox spread?
- ChickenPox can be spread from person to person through the air or by
contact with fluid from ChickenPox blisters.
- Exposure to ChickenPox at school and daycare is common, making the
risk of outbreak high among children in these environments.
- Persons with ChickenPox are contagious and must stay home from
school, daycare, or work, usually for 4-5 days.
Who is at risk of catching ChickenPox?
- Anyone who has not had ChickenPox or the ChickenPox vaccine is at
risk of getting ChickenPox.
- Every year in the United States, ChickenPox causes approximately
7,400 hospitalizations and 40 deaths in otherwise healthy children and
adolescents.
How do I treat ChickenPox?
Who is required to get the ChickenPox vaccine?
- Recently, a state law was passed that requires ChickenPox
vaccination for children attending kindergarten and/or daycare.
- Children 12 months of age and older who attend daycare or preschool
(July 1, 2001).
- All Kindergartners (September 1, 2001).
Where do I get the ChickenPox vaccine?
- Your child can get a free immunization for ChickenPox and other
diseases at the Broward County Health Department.
- The Broward County Health Department is dedicated to providing
cost-effective, preventive and health care services to the people of
Broward County.
- For more information about immunizations for your children or to
find a location nearest you, please call (954) 467-4856.
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Immunization Clinic Schedule
Other ChickenPox Resources
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