Bay County Building
515 Center Avenue
Bay City, Michigan 48708-5941

Outbreak of Varicella (Chickenpox) In Bay County

Press Release - For Immediate Release

BAY CITY, Mich., November 17, 2016 -  The Bay County Health Department has confirmed two cases of chickenpox in a Bay County School. The Health Department is working diligently with the school, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and parents of children in that school who have been reported as not vaccinated, under-vaccinated, or are at risk contracting the virus. In some cases, exclusion from school is warranted, depending on the immunity level of the student.

Chickenpox is a very contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It causes a blister-like rash, itching, tiredness, fever, loss of appetite and headache. The rash appears first on the stomach, back and face and can spread over the entire body causing itchy blisters.

A person with chickenpox is contagious and can spread the virus to others 1 to 2 days before they get the blister like rash and until the blisters have stopped forming and all blisters have developed scabs. This usually takes about 5-7 days. The virus spreads mainly by touching or breathing in the virus particles that come from chickenpox blisters, and possibly through tiny droplets from infected people that get into the air after they breathe or talk. If you have been exposed to chickenpox it can take between 10-21 days before symptoms appear.
Due to the communicability of the disease and the potential to cause severe complications, including death in some cases, people who are immunocompromised, pregnant or unvaccinated are being notified so they may take action to protect their health.

Like other vaccine preventable diseases, the best way to prevent your child from catching Varicella (Chickenpox) is through vaccination. A vaccine is available and is 80%–85% effective against infection and more than 95% effective against severe disease.

For more information or if you have any questions please contact the Bay County Health Department at 895-4003 or visit our website at www.baycounty-mi.gov/heatlh/CommunicableDisease.aspx.