CBS 5 - KPHO

HEALTH DISTRICT ANNOUNCES FIVE CONFIRMED CASES OF VARICELLA (Chicken Pox)

The Corpus Christi-Nueces County Public Health District reports five cases of varicella (chickenpox) have been confirmed in a day care center in Nueces County. Heath officials have indicated that those affected are mostly under the age criteria for vaccination. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), chickenpox is a very contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It causes a blister-like rash, itching, tiredness, and fever. Health officials advise chickenpox can be serious, especially in babies, adults, and people with weakened immune systems. It spreads easily from infected people to others who have never had chickenpox or received the chickenpox vaccine. Chickenpox spreads in the air through coughing or sneezing and it can also be spread by touching or breathing the virus particles that come from chickenpox blisters. In addition, residents should be advised that Shingles are also caused by the same varicella-zoster virus that causes chickenpox. The risk of getting Shingles increases as the person gets older. Anyone who has recovered from chickenpox may develop Shingles. Dr. William Burgin, Jr., states, “The chickenpox vaccine is your best defense against chicken pox and the shingles vaccine is the best defense against shingles” The chicken pox vaccine is recommended for everyone 12 months of age and up and is available at the Health District’s Immunizations Clinic. The Shingles vaccine is recommended for persons 60 years and older but is not available at the Health District. Clinic hours are as follows:

Monday: Walk-in basis, 8 a.m.-11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.-6:30 p.m.

Tuesday & Wednesday: by appointment only 8 a.m.-11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.-4:30 p.m.

Thursday : by appointment only 8 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

Friday : by appointment only 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

There is a $10 administration fee per vaccine with a $30 per-patient cap for those that qualify for the TVFC vaccine. Parent or guardian must accompany any child or adolescent up to the age of 17 years old. If the individual is 18, they can sign for themselves. Parent/guardian must bring the child's current immunization record to each visit. Please be prepared to show the Medicaid or CHIP card if applicable. For more information call 361-826-7238 for the Horne Road Clinic.

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