June 5, 2018
To: Parent/Guardian:
Your child’s health is important to us and we strive to keep you up to date with what is happening in our facility, which is why we are writing to notify you that chickenpox has been identified in our district. Currently one case is identified districtwide with the potential of a second case.
Chickenpox can be spread for one to two days before the rash starts until all blisters are crusted. After being in contact with chickenpox virus, it takes 14-21 days before the rash appears.
If your child or anyone in your household currently has or develops symptoms resembling chickenpox:
1. Contact your healthcare provider to discuss your child’s symptoms.
2. Contact the school nurse to report the illness.
3. Avoid contact with others who have not had chickenpox or who are not vaccinated until lesions become crusted. This means staying at home from school/daycare/work and other gatherings.
If you have any other questions or concerns, you may contact your child’s school nurse or Maine CDC at 1-800-821-5821.
More information on chickenpox is available on Maine CDC’s website at
http://www.maine.gov/dhhs/mecdc/infectious-disease/epi/vaccine/varicella.shtml
State immunization laws are available at
http://www.maine.gov/dhhs/mecdc/infectious-disease/immunization/family/rules.html
Respectfully,
Patricia Hopkins
Superintendent of Schools