Maniilaq Association·KotzebuePublic Health Notice: Possible Chickenpox (Varicella) Cases in the Maniilaq Service Area
Maniilaq Health Center and the Alaska Division of Public Health are monitoring possible cases of chickenpox in the Maniilaq Service Area. Confirmation testing is pending. We are sharing this now so families can take precautions.
What to watch for: Fever, tiredness, loss of appetite, and headache, followed by an itchy rash that turns into fluid-filled blisters. Symptoms usually appear 14-16 days after exposure (range 10-21 days).
If you or your child has a rash or symptoms:
• Call your local village clinic before coming in, so staff can prevent exposure to others.
• Stay home from school, work, and public places until all blisters have dried and crusted over.
• Avoid contact with pregnant women, babies, and people with weakened immune systems. They are at higher risk for complications.
• Do not give aspirin to children with chickenpox. Use acetaminophen for fever.
Protect your family: The chickenpox vaccine is safe and effective. Two doses are recommended for anyone who hasn't had chickenpox or been vaccinated. Children get the first dose at 12-15 months and the second at 4-6 years. To check your family's vaccination status or schedule a vaccine, contact your local village clinic.
Chickenpox can spread 1-2 days before the rash appears, so early action matters. We will share updates as testing results come in.133 shares
Maniilaq Association·KotzebueIn light of National Custodial Workers Day (October 2) and National Healthcare Food Service Week (first week of October), we'd like to take a moment to appreciate our Environmental Services and Dietary teams.
Behind every patient visit, every meal, and every clean, safe space at Maniilaq is a member of these teams. Our custodial staff keep our facilities spotless and safe, and our Dietary team prepares nourishing meals for patients, residents, and families. Their work means early mornings, long shifts, and constant attention to detail, and it is essential to the care we provide across the Northwest Arctic.
Thank you for the care you bring to our communities every day. We see you and we appreciate you.1132 shares
Maniilaq Association·BucklandCongratulations to Nickolas Ticket from Buckland (upper right), and others on completing Blended Session II training! 🎉
Photo courtesy of the Alaska Community Health Aide/Practitioner group.130264 shares
Maniilaq Association·KotzebueManiilaq Association mourns the passing of Faye Harasack, who gave more than 30 years of service to our Finance Department. Faye's generosity reached well beyond her work. She devoted her time and energy to her community and to charitable causes, always looking for ways to make life better for others. Her dedication left a lasting mark on Maniilaq and on the community she cared for so deeply.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to her family and loved ones. We remember Faye with gratitude and affection.Maniilaq Association
Maniilaq Association·Kotzebue📅 October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time dedicated to uplifting survivors, raising public awareness, and working to end relationship abuse.
Maniilaq Family Crisis Center invites everyone to dress up next week, from October 5th to 9th, to help raise awareness about this issue.613 shares
Maniilaq Association·Kotzebue🍽️ Community Meal at Tundra House!
Come share a meal, connect with others, and enjoy some time together at Tundra House!
📍 322 Second St. — building behind Church of God
🕐 1:30–2:30 PM
Everyone is welcome! Come as you are, grab a plate, and stay awhile.1414 shares
