Students and staff at Penn State University are being urged to take precautions after multiple cases of chickenpox were confirmed on campus.
Health officials have issued a warning, advising those who develop symptoms to isolate and seek medical attention.
Three Cases Confirmed on University Park Campus
At least three cases of the highly contagious virus have been identified at Penn State’s University Park, the main campus that houses approximately 42,000 students.
While it remains unclear whether the affected individuals are students or faculty, university officials have traced the source of the outbreak and are notifying those who may have been exposed.
Potential Exposure Locations Identified
Authorities have specifically warned individuals who were present in Mifflin Hall between February 17 and 24, as well as those who visited the Thomas Building on February 20 between 1 and 3 p.m.
Those in these areas during the mentioned timeframes may have been exposed to the virus and should monitor for symptoms.
Checking Vaccination Status and Seeking Medical Help
University health officials recommend that students verify their vaccination status.
Those who experience symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and an itchy rash should isolate and contact university health services for further guidance.
Rise in Vaccine-Preventable Diseases in the U.S.
This outbreak comes amid a broader resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases across the United States.
Recently, Texas reported its first measles-related death in a decade, and an alert was issued for travelers at JFK International Airport in New York after a confirmed measles case.
Public Figures Change Their Stance on Vaccination
Longtime vaccine skeptic and Health and Human Services head, RFK Jr., made headlines over the weekend by reversing his stance, now encouraging vaccinations against measles and other preventable diseases.
Not the First Chickenpox Alert at Penn State
Penn State has dealt with chickenpox concerns before.
In 2015, the university issued an alert following potential exposure ahead of a major dance marathon event.
Understanding Chickenpox and Its Risks
Chickenpox is a highly infectious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus.
It typically presents with an itchy rash, red spots, and fluid-filled blisters on the chest, back, and face.
While commonly affecting children, the virus can be more severe in adults, increasing the risk of complications such as pneumonia, brain swelling, and skin infections.
How Chickenpox Spreads
The virus spreads through direct contact with an infected person’s rash or via airborne droplets from coughs and sneezes.
While most children recover without complications, the disease poses a higher risk to adults, with fatality rates significantly higher in older patients.
Vaccination as the Best Defense
The best way to prevent chickenpox is through vaccination.
The Varivax vaccine, administered in two doses, is 98% effective in preventing the disease.
The U.S. was the first country to introduce a routine chickenpox vaccination program in 1995.
Since then, cases have declined dramatically.
How the Vaccine Changed the Landscape
Before the vaccine’s introduction, chickenpox affected approximately four million people annually, resulting in 13,500 hospitalizations and up to 150 deaths each year.
Today, thanks to widespread vaccination, cases have dropped to fewer than 150,000 per year, with hospitalizations reduced to around 1,400 and annual deaths down to 30.
Global Adoption of the Vaccine
While the U.S. led the way in chickenpox vaccination, other countries introduced similar programs later.
The U.K., for example, only recently recommended routine childhood vaccination against chickenpox in November 2023 due to concerns about shingles, a related viral infection.
A Public Health Success Story
Experts credit the chickenpox vaccine with dramatically reducing the prevalence and severity of the disease.
CDC epidemiologist Mona Marin previously stated that the decline in cases within a single generation is a significant public health achievement, emphasizing the vaccine’s role in saving lives, preventing illness, and minimizing disruptions in schools and households.
What’s Next?
For now, Penn State officials continue to monitor the situation closely, working to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread.
Students and staff are encouraged to stay informed, check their vaccination records, and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their community.