A case of chickenpox at Alderete Middle School has garnered attention as the infected student had been fully vaccinated against the Varicella virus, which typically prevents the illness. Canutillo ISD officials reported that the student is currently receiving medical attention and is recovering well, according to KVIA. Officials are adhering to health protocols, and monitoring a younger sibling at Canutillo Elementary School for symptoms as a precaution.
The infected student's contraction of chickenpox, despite full vaccination, is considered a breakthrough case. The highly contagious disease starts with a fever and progresses to an itchy, blister-like rash. As reported by KFOX-TV, the rash typically begins on the chest, back, and face before spreading to the rest of the body. Chickenpox can pose serious risks to certain groups including pregnant women, infants, adolescents, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
Despite the effectiveness of the chickenpox vaccine, which ranges from 80 to 90 percent, breakthrough cases can still occur. KTSM shared insights from Griego, who explained that a person's immunity levels, known as titers, can diminish over time. "Titers are your level of immunity from the vaccine," said Griego, as per KTSM. "Titer levels can be checked through lab work." This suggests that even with vaccination, there is still a window of vulnerability to the virus if immunity wanes.
For those who do contract chickenpox, guidelines for care are straightforward. Griego advises, "If they have the virus, they need to stay at home, rest, and drink plenty of fluids. They need to control their fevers and moisturize their skin. They cannot be exposed to anyone until the lesions are crusted, Your medical provider can prescribe something for the itchiness, which can be very uncomfortable," as noted by KTSM. Such measures aim to mitigate symptoms and prevent the spread of the virus to others, especially the more vulnerable members of the community.
