A chickenpox outbreak has been identified at Walnut Grove Elementary School, and anyone who has not been immunized may have been exposed to the virus. This notification is in addition to the previous communication sent by Walnut Grove to families on May 19, 2017. This exposure period ranges from April 27 to May 26, 2017, and could continue throughout the next several weeks if no action is taken. In order to reduce the risk of exposure to and transmission of chickenpox, Walnut Grove Elementary and Vancouver Public Schools have worked closely with Clark County Public Health (CCPH) to develop a response.

Based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations, CCPH requires that persons who cannot demonstrate immunity to chickenpox be excluded from Walnut Grove Elementary School and all other childcare, school and congregate settings until 21 days have passed since the date of last known possible exposure (currently May 26, 2017). Accordingly, exclusion should begin May 30, 2017, and extend until June 16, 2017, with individuals allowed to return on June 19, 2017, unless additional cases are identified. Please note that if chickenpox exposure continues this date may change.

If you previously provided the school with documentation of your child’s immunity to chickenpox, your child may return to school at the regular time on Tuesday, May 30. No further action is required.

If your child has not been immunized, documentation of immunity may be provided through any of the following:

  • Date of birth before the year 1980
  • Record of at least one dose of chickenpox (varicella) vaccine, verified by a licensed health care provider
  • A letter from a licensed health care provider documenting infection with and full recovery from previous chickenpox illness
  • A letter from a licensed health care provider that confirms a blood test or serology showing chickenpox immunity.

Since chickenpox vaccine is not recommended for pregnant women, we recommend that pregnant women talk to their health care provider about potential exposure to chickenpox.

CCPH recommends that you watch for the signs and symptoms of the disease. If you suspect you/your child is ill with chickenpox, please inform the school. Get additional information regarding chickenpox.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Walnut Grove Elementary School, your child’s health care provider or CCPH Communicable Disease (360-397-8182).

Thank you for your attention.