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CHICKENPOX (VARICELLA) IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS

Are you checking for the chickenpox requirement?

Since July of 2001, the chickenpox (varicella) vaccine has been required for children in child care/pre-K and kindergarten. It is required only for children in child care between the ages of 18 months and 5 years, and for all kindergarteners.

Parents must show proof that their child had either the chickenpox vaccine or had the disease.

What kind of documentation do you need to see?

Proof of receiving chickenpox vaccine:
Documentation on child's immunization record of date vaccine was given, accompanied by doctor/clinic stamp or signature
OR
Proof of having chickenpox disease:
Documentation on child's immunization record or physician letterhead that child had the disease accompanied by doctor/clinic stamp or signature

Because varicella (chickenpox) is required for school and child care entrance, there is movement at the state level to make varicella a required reportable disease. In the interim, outbreaks of any disease including varicella continue to be reportable. For cases of 5 or more at your school or child care center, report to the County's Immunization Branch at (619) 692-8691 and ask to speak to a Public Health Nurse.

RELATED DOCUMENTS

About Chickenpox Disease and the Requirement:
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PDF format-English (4/02)
PDF format-Spanish (4/02)

The information on this website should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider may recommend variations in treatment based on individual facts and circumstances.