University Health Services issues chickenpox information

University Health Services (UHS) advised the FIU community Feb. 2 that there has been a case of chickenpox, also known as varicella disease, diagnosed at the university. Varicella is a virus that can be spread through respiratory droplets and skin-to-skin contact. Since most people were exposed to the disease as children, UHS officials do not anticipate a major outbreak on campus; however, they shared the information below so that everyone can be aware of the signs and symptoms.

Symptoms usually appear 21 days after you have come in contact with someone who is infected. The infected person can begin spreading the disease two days prior to signs and symptoms appearing. Therefore, you may come into contact with people who are infected but are unaware of their infection.

Once symptoms appear they generally consist of:

• Fever
• General Body Aches
• A rash with individual lesions appearing as small blisters
• Headache

Individuals who develop any of these signs and symptoms should consult their healthcare provider. They are recommending individuals get the varicella vaccine if they have not previously been vaccinated or have never had the chickenpox. Getting the vaccine if already exposed to the virus will not prevent the disease but may minimize the severity. UHS also recommends getting the vaccine in case of future exposure. In response to this potential exposure, the vaccine is available on campus in University Health Services, free of charge, to students. Otherwise, individuals can be vaccinated at their health provider or local health department.

To find out more information about chickenpox or to inquire about the vaccine, please visit studenthealth.fiu.edu. You can also contact the UHS General Medical Clinic if you would like to speak with a healthcare provider — BBC:  305-919-5620, ext. 2; MMC:  305-348-2401, ext. 2.