Shasta County Public Health has received reports of 11 cases of Chickenpox among school-aged children and one adult in 2009.
All of the children for whom information is available had only received one dose of Varicella vaccine instead of the recommended two doses. Chickenpox is caused by exposure to the Varicella virus that causes a blister-like rash, itching and high fever.
"Chickenpox is highly contagious and can spread from person to person through direct contact and through the air from coughing and sneezing," said Lou Anne Cummings, M.D., deputy health officer for Shasta County Public Health. "We recommend vaccination for anyone who has not had the disease, but especially if you suspect you've had close contact with someone with Chickenpox."
Chickenpox can cause serious permanent disability or death, even in healthy people. See a doctor as soon as possible if you have been exposed or develop symptoms.
To obtain vaccination, please contact your healthcare provider. If you don't have a regular provider, Shasta County Public Health offers Chickenpox vaccine at regular immunization clinics for $10 per dose for children (through age 18) and $85 for adults (age 19 and older.) For more information, visit www.shastapublichealth.net.
Scripps Interactive Newspapers Group
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