Syracuse, N. Y. -- Four cases of chicken pox have been reported at Syracuse University.
In an e-mail sent today to students, faculty and staff, SU said people on campus who have been in close proximity to the infected individuals have been contacted and arrangements have been made to vaccinate them.
SU is encouraging people on campus to check their health records and evaluate their need for a chicken pox vaccine.
Chicken pox is caused by a virus. It causes a skin rash of blister-like lesions, covering the body but usually more concentrated on the face, scalp and trunk. Most, but not all, infected individuals have fever, which develops just before or when the rash appears. Most people recover without major complications in a week’s time.
The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that adults who have never had the chicken pox or the vaccine get vaccinated. SU advised faculty and staff to contact their primary care providers if they want or need the vaccine. Students can contact SU Health Services.