NEW IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENT
Varicella (Chickenpox)
Dear Parent/Guardian
Chickenpox (varicella) is more than just an itchy rash. It is one of the most common childhood illnesses. It spreads easily and can have serious complications especially for infants, adolescents and adults.
Chickenpox can lead to serious skin infections, pneumonia, meningitis and even death. Even in milder cases of chickenpox, it is uncomfortable and difficult to treat itchiness and there is potential for scarring.
The Washington State Board of Health has adopted a change to add immunity to varicella as a requirement for students who attend school and licensed child care beginning July 1, 2006.
Children affected by this requirement are:
• Children 19 months of age up to Kindergarten entry attending licensed child care or preschools beginning July 1, 2006,
• Children attending Kindergarten in school year 2006-2007 and
• Children attending 6th grade in school year 2006-2007.
Your child can meet this requirement by documenting one of the following on the Certificate of Immunization Status (CIS) form:
• The date (month, day and year) your child received one dose of varicella vaccine. The vaccine needs to have been given on or after the child's first birthday.
2) History of chickenpox disease and approximate date or age at the time of disease
3) Report of a blood test indicating that the child is immune
4) Philosophical, religious or medical exemption.
Please make sure you update your child's CIS form before the first day of school in Fall 2006.
Please contact your health care provider or local health department to make an appointment for your child to receive the varicella vaccine or contact your child's school if you have questions or would like further information.
Posted: 2/1/06