Sauk County Sees Rise in Chickenpox

Public Health Sauk County would like to remind people of the seriousness of varicella (var-i-sell-uh), also known as chickenpox. There has recently been an increase in chickenpox cases in the county. This illness is known for causing an itchy rash on the skin that can spread over the entire body. Other symptoms of chickenpox include tiredness, loss of appetite, headache, and fever. The illness spreads from person to person by touching an infected person’s rash or through the air when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes.

The best way to protect infants and children from this illness is to get them vaccinated. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends two doses of the varicella vaccine, usually at ages 12 to 15 months and then at 4 to 6 years old. Adults who are unvaccinated and have never had chickenpox should also receive two doses of the vaccine at least 28 days apart.

This illness is very serious and can lead to severe complications and death, even in healthy people. If you or a family member develop symptoms, contact your healthcare provider. For more information on the chickenpox vaccine, visit dhs.wisconsin.gov/immunization/varicella.htm. To learn more about what immunizations are recommended based on age, visit cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/index.html. You can access the Wisconsin Immunization Registry online to look up your own immunization record. If you are a parent or legal guardian, you also can look up your children’s records.

Public Health Sauk County offers routine immunizations by appointment. Call 608-355-3290 to set up your appointment A parent or guardian’s written consent is required for all children under 18 years. Vaccines are free for children 18 and under without health insurance or vaccine coverage; individuals who are Medicaid eligible, uninsured, or under-insured; and for American Indians or Alaska Natives. Adult vaccines are available to anyone over 18 without health insurance.