HEALTH ALERTS

Chicken Pox

Time for Exposure to Illness

10 to 21 days (usually 14 to 16 days)

Symptons

Slight fever, runny nose and a rash that begins as raised pink spots that blister and scab.

Impetigo (School Sores)

Symptoms

Small red spots change into blisters that fill up with pus and become crusted; usually on the face, hands or scalp.

School or home?

Keep home from school until antibiotic treatment starts. Sores should be covered with watertight dressings.

How can I help prevent spread?

Parents of children who may have had contact with impetigo should look for signs of infection and seek treatment if symptoms develop.  Careful hand washing especially after changing dressings. Avoid sharing toilet articles, towels, clothing or bed linen. Consider using anti-bacterial soap for bathing for two to three weeks. Avoid scratching or touching the lesions to prevent spread to other parts of the body.  Completing the recommended antibiotic course is very important.