Dear Parents, Guardians and Staff,
A case of chickenpox has been diagnosed at the daycare or school. Chickenpox is one of the most contagious of diseases. Onset is usually benign and consists of skin rash with fever and itching. The eruption has the appearance of red spots which turn into small, itchy blisters filled with liquid. New blisters can continue to form over the course of a few days and then the skin lesions form scales.
Children start to become contagious during the 24 to 48-hour period that precedes the eruption and until the scaling of all the blisters. When the infection is transmitted, symptoms appear between two and three weeks after contact.
While chickenpox is usually benign, there can occasionally be serious complications. People who take medications such as cortisone, or anti-cancer or immune system drugs or who have a disease that reduces their capacity to fight infection (leukemia, HIV) are more at risk of complications. We suggest that people in any of the above situations quickly see their doctor, who can prescribe preventive medication.
People who have already had chickenpox or who have been vaccinated for it are considered protected. If this is not the case, persons not protected should call Info-santé 8-1-1 to find out whether vaccination is indicated. The vaccine may prevent the disease if administered quickly following contact with someone who has chickenpox.
Vaccinated people can sometimes develop a less serious case of chickenpox, which will last for a shorter period with fewer blisters and less fever.
Children who come down with chickenpox must not be given aspirin. Instead, use acetaminophen to safely lower their fever. To decrease the risk of infection, ensure that the child’s skin is kept clean. Children with chickenpox can return to daycare or school as soon as their general state of health permits them to participate in activities.
Please advise the daycare or the school if your child contracts chickenpox.
Thank you for your co-operation.
Eldon Keon, Principal