Suspected chickenpox case at Monessen Elementary Center found to be viral rash

The School District of the City of Monessen has provided an update on what was once believed to be a confirmed case of chickenpox.

According to a second letter sent out by the district, what was originally believed to be a case of chickenpox at the Monessen Elementary Center has turned out to be a viral rash, and chickenpox has been ruled out. 

"We understand that health-related updates can be concerning, and we sincerely apologize for any worry this may have caused," the letter read. "Please know that we share information out of an abundance of caution, and always aim to keep our families informed while prioritizing the safety and well-being of everyone in our schools." 

The student who was believed to have chickenpox was cleared by a doctor to safely return to school.

The district said that there is no risk of exposure within the school. Earlier this week, the district believed that the rash was chickenpox and alerted families.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, chickenpox, which is very contagious, often begins with symptoms like fever, fatigue, and loss of appetite, followed by an itchy rash.

The rash often starts with small red spots and progresses to blisters that become scabbed over, the CDC says. Symptoms of chickenpox typically appear between 10 and 21 days after being exposed to the virus. 

This story has been updated to reflect the newest information provided to KDKA-TV by the School District of the City of Monessen. An earlier version of the story reported the initial letter that informed families of a confirmed case of chickenpox.