This fall, Public Health has received reports varicella outbreaks in 2 elementary schools and a child day care center in King County. 

• Sample of the letter to families that Public Health provides to schools experiencing varicella outbreaks.

Although varicella vaccine is not yet covered by the Vaccines For Children (VFC) program for use as a routine second dose for children age 12 months to 12 years, VFC does cover the second dose for susceptible children in this age group when used to control an outbreak of varicella. We ask for your help in assisting families when they present to your office requesting a 2nd dose of varicella vaccine in this context. Some families may bring with them a copy of the attached letter.

• Varicella fact sheet.