Health Alert: Chickenpox Exposure at Ithaca Sciencenter

Published on November 19, 2025

Health Alert: Varicella (Chickenpox) exposure at the Sciencenter (601 1st St., Ithaca) on Saturday, Nov. 15th, 2pm-5pm.

If you were at the Sciencenter during this time frame, you and your children may have been exposed to the chickenpox virus. Chickenpox spreads by respiratory droplets and by contact with chickenpox rash/sores. The virus can spread prior to the development of the itchy, red chickenpox sores. It may take up to 20 days from exposure for symptoms to develop. Symptoms may include: fatigue headache loss of appetite low-grade fever itchy, red rash/sores lasting for 7-10 days.

Those most at risk of infection: unvaccinated infants, children or adults (excluding those who have had chickenpox infection in the past) pregnant persons those with weakened immune systems.                             

TC Whole Health and the Sciencenter remind you to stay home if you or your child(ren) are feeling sick to help keep our community healthy. If you have received the varicella/chickenpox vaccine, you are well protected. If you think you and/or your child/children may have been exposed, be on the lookout for developing symptoms and contact your healthcare provider if rash develops. It may take up to 20 days from exposure for symptoms to develop.

Vaccination protects against infection. Vaccine is available at pediatrician offices, at Tompkins County Whole Health, and at pharmacies (for adults). Learn more online at: www.tompkinscountyny.gov/health/chs

For more information on Varicella (chickenpox) spread, symptoms, treatment and prevention online at:  https://www.cdc.gov/chickenpox/about/index.html 

Tompkins County Whole Health: envisioning a future where every person in Tompkins County can achieve wellness. Find us online at: https://www.tompkinscountyny.gov/health and follow us on Facebook, Instagram or X. Sign up to receive Whole Health updates or other county announcements via email or text. 

- end -