PSU confirms three cases of chickenpox at University Park campus
STATE COLLEGE — Three cases of chickenpox have been confirmed at Penn State's main campus according to University Health Services.
According to a release from campus health officials, members of the campus community who have received two doses of the varicella vaccine or have had the disease are considered protected. Those unsure of their immunity should check their records, health officials said.
University Health Services has identified the origin of the cases at University Park and is working to notify close contacts to help limit the spread. Students and staff who were in Mifflin Hall between Feb. 17 and Feb. 24 or in the Thomas Building on Feb. 20 between 1 and 3 p.m. may have been exposed. Individuals should check their immunization records and, if necessary, schedule a vaccination through myUHS, a local pharmacy or their health care provider.
Anyone displaying symptoms of chickenpox should isolate immediately and contact University Health Services at 814-865-4UHS (4847) or their local health care provider. Those who believe they may have been exposed should also contact a health professional to discuss next steps. A varicella vaccination within three to five days of exposure can help reduce symptoms.
Chickenpox, caused by the varicella zoster virus, is a highly contagious disease characterized by itchy blisters that cover the head and body. Symptoms often include a rash that spreads from the head to the rest of the body, along with fatigue, headache and fever lasting several days. In rare cases, chickenpox can lead to serious complications such as infected blisters, pneumonia, bleeding disorders and brain swelling.
The illness spreads through airborne particles and direct contact with an infected person. Symptoms typically develop within 10 to 21 days after exposure. Individuals are contagious one to two days before the rash appears and remain contagious until all blisters have dried. Given the approaching University spring break, individuals should be especially mindful of potential exposure and symptoms.
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