(EL PASO COUNTY, Colo.) — El Paso County Public Health (EPCPH) said reports of chickenpox have been received from The Classical Academy and officials are working with the school.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) said chickenpox is a very contagious illness with symptoms including an itchy, blister-like rash that usually lasts about four to seven days. EPCPH said while most cases are mild, serious complications from the illness can happen, including bacterial infections of the skin or other parts of the body, pneumonia, encephalitis, and death. chickenpox can be especially concerning during pregnancy, in babies, or in those with weakened immune systems.

A person with chickenpox is contagious for one to two days before the rash appears and remains contagious until all the lesions have scabbed over. The CDC has additional information on at-home care and when to contact a doctor for treatment.

According to EPCPH, a vaccine to prevent chickenpox is part of the routine childhood series and is usually given at 12 to 15 months with a second dose at four to six years old. Vaccines are typically available at primary care doctors and local pharmacies. EPCPH said the vaccine is available and to make an appointment call (719) 578-3199, and use option 5.