Collin County health officials warn of chickenpox surge as vaccination rates drop

Collin County health officials report a rise in chickenpox cases, sparking concerns of potential spread to Tarrant County amid declining vaccination rates.

TARRANT COUNTY, Texas — Health officials in Collin County have issued an alert after a rise in chickenpox cases, raising concerns that the virus could soon spread into neighboring Tarrant County.

Collin County health officials reported six cases of varicella, commonly known as chickenpox, in the past week. The virus is highly contagious and can spread quickly, especially in schools and childcare settings.

Dr. Laura Romano, a pediatric hospitalist at Cook Children’s Medical Center, said it’s highly possible the virus could spread into Tarrant County.

“It’s only a matter of time before we start seeing cases trickle in over here,” Laura Romano said.

Romano said the increase is especially concerning as vaccination rates continue to decline.

“We know that across the board, vaccination rates are beginning to fall for all vaccine-preventable diseases, including chicken pox, here in Tarrant County,” Laura Romano said.

The varicella-zoster virus causes chickenpox and typically begins with symptoms like fever, sore throat, and fatigue before developing into an itchy, blister-like rash that can spread across the body.

“But it doesn’t start that way. It starts with a few days of running a fever, maybe having a sore throat, some muscle aches, just not feeling your best,” Laura Romano said.

While many cases are mild, health experts warn the virus can lead to serious complications, particularly for young children, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems. Unvaccinated individuals are also at higher risk.

Romano said declining vaccination rates are contributing to the return of preventable diseases.

“We have seen a steady decline and the vaccination rates of our incoming kindergartners across the board here in Texas…we’re seeing these diseases begin to come back,” Laura Romano said.

Although no cases have been reported in Tarrant County so far, doctors warn that could change.

“There has been none that has been reported here. But the fear is…it’s slowly going to spread from one county to the other,” Laura Romano said.

Health officials say early detection and keeping sick children home will be critical to limiting the spread of the virus.