The San Antonio Community Health Committee convened on February 28, 2025, to address a significant public health concern: a recent outbreak of varicella (chickenpox) in the area. The meeting highlighted the urgent need for community awareness and vaccination efforts following a confirmed case that potentially exposed thousands of residents.

During the session, health officials detailed the timeline of the outbreak, which began with an infected individual visiting several public locations in San Antonio from February 14 to February 24. Notably, the individual was present at the University of Texas at San Antonio and a local restaurant, raising alarms about widespread exposure. Officials emphasized that varicella is highly contagious, particularly among unvaccinated individuals, with a 90% infection rate among those who come into contact with an infected person.

The committee underscored the importance of vaccination, particularly the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine, which provides effective immunity against varicella. Currently, vaccination rates in Bexar County have dropped below desired levels, prompting concerns about the community's vulnerability to outbreaks. The last recorded cases in the county were in 2019, but the recent decline in vaccination coverage has heightened the risk of new infections.

In response to the outbreak, health officials are implementing a multi-faceted approach that includes public education, outreach to schools, and collaboration with local healthcare providers. They are actively monitoring potential cases and have established communication channels to keep the public informed about preventive measures and vaccination opportunities.

The committee also discussed the importance of timely reporting of infections by healthcare providers, which is crucial for controlling the spread of the disease. They are working closely with schools and community organizations to disseminate guidelines and ensure that preventive measures are in place, especially for vulnerable populations such as young children and pregnant women.

As the situation develops, the committee remains committed to protecting the health of San Antonio residents and urges everyone to stay informed and vaccinated to prevent further outbreaks. The next steps include ongoing communication with the community and health partners to bolster vaccination efforts and monitor the situation closely.