Because a person
with chickenpox is contagious 1-2 days before the rash appears, by the time we
know about a chickenpox case, your child may
have already been exposed. It can take up to
three weeks for chickenpox to develop after exposure.
If you suspect your child has chickenpox, you may
bring him/her to the Health Center or to your child’s pediatrician. Once a diagnosis is made, your child will
not be allowed to return to school until all blisters are scabbed over.
I have included a
link to the fact sheet from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website. It answers many of the most common
questions. It’s very important to keep
a child who has chickenpox well-rested and well-hydrated. It is also important to help alleviate
symptoms – such as fever and itching.
If you are unable to control a fever or think your child may be having
any complications, please contact your child’s doctor or call the Health
Center.
I’ll be happy to
answer any other questions you may have.
Sharyl Iden, RN
Southgate School
Nurse