ECS: Chicken Pox

Chicken Pox Update

Dear Parents and Caregivers,

We are writing to let you know that we have been made aware of a few cases of chickenpox within our school community.

While these cases occurred over the term break, and we are not aware of any students who have attended school while infectious, we want to keep everyone informed so we can look after one another.

For your reference, Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora outlines the following guidelines regarding chickenpox:  (Health Advice Link)

• Symptoms: Fever, runny nose, cough, and a rash that develops into itchy blisters.

• How it spreads: Inhaling airborne particles from an infected person’s cough or sneeze, or direct contact with fluid from blisters.

• Incubation period: Symptoms typically appear 10–21 days (usually 14–16 days) after exposure.

• Exclusion period: Students with chickenpox must stay home until 1 week after the rash appears OR until all blisters have completely dried up and crusted over.

Please monitor your child for symptoms, and notify the school if they develop chickenpox.

Thank you for your support in keeping our community healthy and safe.

Warm regards,

The ECS Team