13 Chickenpox

72 cases

0 deaths

1.4 % of cases were hospitalized

5.8 cases per 100,000 population

13.1 Epidemiologic Review

13.1.1 Disease Information

Overview: Chickenpox is a highly contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV).

Symptoms: Symptoms typically include an itchy, blister-like rash that eventually scabs. The rash appears on the chest, back and face first before spreading to the entire body. Other symptoms can include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite and headache.

Transmission: Transmission occurs through close contact to an infected individual. A patient is infectious 1 to 2 days prior to rash and until the lesions have crusted (scabbed). Preventing scratching by the patient can help reduce the spread.

Treatment: Treatment is supportive to help alleviate symptoms. Home remedies such as calamine lotion and oatmeal baths can soothe the itch.

Prevention The best prevention method against chickenpox is vaccination.

13.1.2 Demographics

Rates for <1, 50-64, and 65+ years of age are not displayed due to low case counts.

Racial and Ethnicity demographic data are not presented due to low counts.

13.1.3 Outbreaks

The report summarizes recent chickenpox outbreaks occurring in various locations within Salt Lake County, Utah, as identified by the Salt Lake County Health Department (SLCoHD) during the 2023-2024 reporting period. Outbreaks were recorded across a variety of settings, including shelters, schools, and community clusters, with varying case numbers and demographic impacts. These outbreaks highlight ongoing challenges in managing chickenpox transmission in congregate settings and close-contact environments. The Salt Lake County Health Department has implemented containment measures for each location and continues to encourage vaccination, especially for those in close-contact environments or who are at higher risk of complications. Enhanced community engagement and vaccination efforts, particularly in vulnerable populations, are essential to reducing the risk of additional outbreaks in the region.

13.1.4 Monthly and Historical Comparisons

Data for Utah and the CDC were retrieved from the CDC’s Notifiable Infectious Disease Data Tables.

13.2 Key Things to Know

Commonly reported symptoms among cases include fever, fatigue, and rash.

Most cases reported having sores, with 38% of cases reporting 50-249 sores.

30% of cases reported treatment, with Acyclovir and Valacyclovir as the reported treatments.

48% of cases were not vaccinated. Reasons given for not vaccinating included patient/parent refusal and the case was outside the recommended age for vaccine.

23% of cases reported any doses of vaccine.