Chickenpox (Varicella) Cases Increasing in Area. What to Do and How to Prevent.
Fort Defiance Indian Hospital Board (FDIHB) has received information that several cases of varicella (chickenpox) have recently been confirmed in Ganado, Arizona. Varicella (chickenpox) is a highly contagious viral disease that causes a blister-like rash, itching, tiredness, and fever. Chickenpox can have serious complications in babies, pregnant people and those with weakened immune systems. People who have previously had chickenpox (adults born before 1980) and others who have had chickenpox in the past are not at risk. Individuals who have had 2 doses of the varicella vaccine (and are not taking medications that suppress the immune system) are at very low risk.
February 5, 2026 | Public Announcement
Chickenpox (Varicella) Cases Increasing in Area. What to Do and How to Prevent.
FORT DEFIANCE, AZ – Fort Defiance Indian HospitalBoard (FDIHB) has received information that several cases of varicella(chickenpox) have recently been confirmed in Ganado, Arizona.
What is Varicella (chickenpox): Varicella(chickenpox) is a highly contagious viral disease that causes a blister-likerash, itching, tiredness and fever. Chickenpox can have serious complicationsin babies, pregnant people and those with weakened immune systems. People whohave previously had chickenpox (adults born before 1980) and others who havehad chickenpox in the past are not at risk. Individuals who have had 2 doses ofthe varicella vaccine (and are not taking medications that suppress the immunesystem) are at very low risk.
What to do if youor your child was exposed to a confirmed chickenpox case:
- Individuals who know they were exposed and have never had chickenpox and have not received 2 doses of the varicella vaccine should contact their healthcare provider as soon as possible, because receiving the vaccine or immune globulin within 5 days after the exposure can prevent illness
- Anyone who develops varicella symptoms should stay home and seek medical attention if symptoms become severe.
How to Prevent Varicella: The best way to preventvaricella (chickenpox) is to be vaccinated with a varicella-containing vaccine.During a varicella (chickenpox) outbreak it is important that all children whodo not have a medical contraindication receive their first dose of thevaricella vaccine at 12 months and the second dose at age 4. Talk to yourhealthcare provider to make sure you and your family are up to date onvaccines. Vaccines are provided at Tséhootsooí Medical Center Primary CareClinic 928.729.8032 and Pediatric Clinic 928.729.8710
For moreinformation about Varicella (chickenpox) visit: https://www.cdc.gov/chickenpox/about/index.html
For updates and changes, please look at ourFacebook or Instagram pages.