The Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency has confirmed five cases of chickenpox in youth within the jurisdiction.

Chickenpox, caused by the varicella zoster virus, is highly contagious and characterized by an itchy, blister-like rash, fatigue, headache and fever, according to an announcement from the agency. The virus spreads through airborne particles and direct contact with an infected person.

Symptoms usually appear 10 to 21 days after exposure. Individuals are contagious one to two days before the rash appears and remain so until all blisters have dried, according to the announcement.

Most people who have received two doses of the varicella vaccine or have previously had chickenpox are considered protected. Breakthrough cases in vaccinated individuals tend to be mild,

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