University of Wisconsin Health Services reported one confirmed case of a student with chickenpox Wednesday.
UHS relayed to students via a campus-wide email that a UW student has chickenpox and said they are currently monitoring the situation.
Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It is considered highly contagious and can spread from an infected person through coughing or sneezing. UHS said the virus may appear as a rash on the head before it spreads to other parts of the body.
Common symptoms include fatigue, headaches and a fever that lasts for several days. UHS said someone may be more at risk for chickenpox if they have a chronic disease or are on medication that suppresses their immune system.
UHS urged students to check their immunization records to confirm they have received two doses of the vaccine for chickenpox. Students who haven’t may receive the vaccine for free if they schedule an appointment with UHS.
More information on chickenpox can be found on the UHS website, and Center for Disease Control and Prevention website.