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Grand Erie Public Health is warning the public about a potential chickenpox exposure at Brantford General Hospital’s emergency department.
The possible exposure happened between 11:53 p.m. on July 21 and 2:48 p.m. on July 22 at the hospital on Terrace Hill Street. Anyone who was in the emergency department during that time is being asked to monitor for symptoms until August 11 or 12, which is 21 days after exposure.
Chickenpox is a highly contagious illness caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Symptoms usually appear about two weeks after exposure and can include fever, fatigue and an itchy rash that develops into fluid-filled blisters.
Most people who have had chickenpox or received two doses of the vaccine are protected. However, infants under one year old, pregnant people who are not immune, those with weakened immune systems and anyone who has never had chickenpox or been vaccinated face a higher risk of serious illness.
Anyone who develops symptoms should stay home, avoid contact with others and call a healthcare provider before seeking in-person care. Grand Erie Public Health encourages anyone unsure of their immunity or at higher risk to contact their healthcare provider or the health unit for advice.
