Health district issues vaccination reminder

QUINCY — Seven cases of chickenpox emerged from the Quincy School District in little more than a week's time. The Grant County Health District reported.

"They've all accrued within a close span of time," said health district Administrator Peggy Grigg.

The cases were reported from May 31 through June 8. No cases were reported to the health district since June 8, Grigg said.

The Grant County Health District is reminding the public to arm themselves against chickenpox after the increased number of reports.

"Nationally and statewide, public health officials and The American Academy of Pediatrics strongly recommend two doses of the vaccine for children who have not had the chickenpox," Grigg said.

Children ages 13 and under should obtain two vaccinations three months apart, she said. Children at least 13 years old and adults should obtain two vaccinations four to eight weeks apart.

An outbreak in the Ephrata School District was contained in the fall when all students were required to show proof of immunization before starting school, Grigg said. The outbreak in Ephrata began in spring 2006, when more than 40 cases were reported.

"Public health staff will monitor the incidence of chickenpox in the Quincy area over the summer until early to mid-August to determine whether similar action will be required for Quincy School District students and staff," Grigg said.

Grigg said monitoring the chickenpox cases may be challenging because school is releasing for the summer, and the disease does not have to be reported.