Maine CDC Health Advisory

September 6, 2022

Varicella Testing and Reporting Recommendations

In 2021, providers reported 63 cases of varicella in Maine residents to Maine CDC, compared to just 33 cases reported in 2020. The decrease in widespread COVID-19 social distancing practices likely played a role in the increase in varicella cases. Varicella is a notifiable condition in Maine, and all confirmed or suspected cases should be reported to Maine CDC by telephone, fax, or electronic lab report within 48 hours of recognition or strong suspicion of disease.

Advisory (PDF)