Dear Parents and Guardians,

Please be informed that we have received notification of a confirmed case of Chickenpox (Varicella) involving a Year 5 student.

The health and safety of our school community is our top priority. Our facilities team has already carried out deep cleaning and disinfection of the relevant classrooms and common areas.

Please read the information below regarding what to look out for and the precautionary measures we need to take.

What is Chickenpox?

Chickenpox is a highly contagious viral disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It spreads easily through droplets in the air (coughing or sneezing) or through direct contact with the blister fluid of an infected person.

Key Symptoms to Look Out For

Symptoms usually appear 10 to 21 days after exposure. Please monitor your child closely for:

• Fever and tiredness: Usually the first signs, accompanied by a loss of appetite.
• Itchy skin rash: This typically develops 1 to 2 days after the initial symptoms, starting on the chest and back before spreading to the face, limbs, and the rest of the body.
• Blisters: The rash progresses from flat spots to raised bumps, then into itchy, fluid-filled blisters. These blisters will eventually crust over and form scabs.

Precautionary Measures at Home

To help us prevent further spread within the school, we kindly ask you to:

1. Check Daily: Monitor your child’s temperature and check their skin for any unusual rashes before sending them to school.
2. Practice High Hand Hygiene: Remind your child to wash their hands frequently with liquid soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.
3. Encourage Respiratory Hygiene: Teach children to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, and to dispose of the tissue properly.
4. Avoid Sharing: Advise your child not to share personal items, food, drinks, or utensils with classmates.

When to stay home: If your child develops a fever or a rash, do not send them to school. Keep them at home, seek immediate medical advice, and inform the School Nurse as soon as possible.

When to return to school: An infected student must remain at home and isolate until all blisters have completely dried up, crusted over, and formed scabs (which usually takes about 5 to 7 days from the appearance of the rash).

If you have any questions or if your child is diagnosed with Chickenpox, please do not hesitate to contact us. Thank you for your cooperation and vigilance in keeping our school safe and healthy.

Warm regards,

Dianne Dungca

School Nurse