The Village of Oak Park | 123 Madison St.  Oak Park, IL 60302 | village@oak-park.us

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Emerging & Communicable Diseases

This page provides information and resources on emerging or communicable diseases highlighted by the Health Department. 

Varicella (chicken pox)

In December of 2023, health officials noted an increase of Varicella (chicken pox) cases in Oak Park, as well as the Chicago area. Most children and adults in Illinois are expected to be protected against varicella infections either by vaccination or previous disease. The course of illness is usually mild and not life-threatening to healthy children, but it may be severe in infants, adults, and persons with compromised immune systems. In some cases, chickenpox may cause more serious illness, and may even lead to death.

See below for signs and symptoms, incubation and communicability periods, how to prevent the spread and other information.