Tséhootsooí Medical Center Confirms Chickenpox (Varicella) Exposure, St. Michaels, AZ

April 6, 2026

Community Announcement                                                  

Tséhootsooí Medical Center Confirms Chickenpox (Varicella) Exposure, St. Michaels, AZ

ST. MICHAELS, AZ – Fort Defiance Indian Hospital Board(FDIHB) has confirmed that a person has tested positive for varicella(chickenpox). FDIHB is working with local partners to notify individuals who have potentially been exposed. Individuals who were at the location at thedates listed below may have been exposed and should monitor for any signs or symptoms of illness.

Location: St. Michael Indian School (St Michaels, AZ)

Exposure Date: March 30 & 31, 2026

Watch for Symptoms Until: April 21, 2026

What is Varicella (chickenpox): Varicella (chickenpox) is a highlycontagious viral disease. Symptoms include: high fever, cough, blister-like rash, itching, tiredness, and runny nose. It can lead to serious complicationsin unprotected babies, pregnant individuals, and those with weak immunesystems.

What to do if you or your child was exposed to a confirmed chickenpox case: Individuals who were exposed AND meet one of the following criteria should contact their healthcare provider because receivingthe vaccine within 5 days or immune globulin within 10 days after theexposure can prevent illness. 

• Children who are notup-to-date on their varicella vaccine (1 dose due at 12 months, the 2nd dose due at 4 years)
• Individuals withseverely weak immune systems (e.g., have had an organ transplant) who have not had 2 varicella vaccines or had chickenpox or shingles in the past
• Adults born after 1980who have not had 2 doses of the varicella vaccine, a lab test showing immunity or a history of chicken pox or shingles
• Anyone who developsvaricella symptoms should stay home and seek medical attention if symptoms become severe. Symptoms usually develop 8 to 21 days after an exposure. 
• If you seekmedical attention, call ahead and let them know you have been exposed to chickenpox before entering the building.

How to Prevent Varicella: The best way to prevent chickenpox(varicella) is through vaccination. Children should receive their first dose at12 months and the second at age 4, unless medically contraindicated. Check withyour healthcare provider to ensure vaccinations are up to date. Vaccines are available at Tséhootsooí Medical Center: Primary Care Clinic 928.729.8032 andPediatric Clinic 928.729.8710.

Formore information about Varicella (chickenpox) visit: https://www.cdc.gov/chickenpox/about/index.html.

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