The Allegheny County Health Department has updated it's immunization recommendations regarding the Varivax (chicken pox) booster.  The area school districts now have new requirements for the 2008-2009 school year. Children in grades K-12 are required to have a second dose (booster) of the vaccine or written statement from the doctor indicating when the disease occurred. The schools are requiring written documentation of the updated vaccination during the 2008-2009 school year (up until April 2009). The schools will accept a copy of current immunizations with a note stating when your child will be scheduled for any immunization updates (at their annual physical). If your child is coming in over the summer-months for their annual physical, they may get the booster vaccination at that time. 

 Please keep in Mind that if your child participates in school sports, the furture reqirements will be that the annual physical take place AFTER JUNE 1ST.  Please plan future schedules accordingly.

CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) can provide more information about the symptoms and prevention of the chicken pox disease.