WASHINGTON — The Department of Health (DOH) is rolling out a new chickenpox vaccine requirement for high school students.



The DOH announced Thursday that all public and private high school students will be required to get two doses of the chickenpox vaccine before they enter the schools.



The new requirement starts this year.



The DOH said teens should be vaccinated soon to avoid a last-minute rush before the start of school.



Chickenpox is transmitted through the air by coughing and sneezing or by touching chickenpox blisters.



If a student needs two doses of the chickenpox vaccine, they should wait one month between each dose.



"Chickenpox is a preventable disease that can be particularly dangerous for kids with weakened immune systems. If all students are up-to-date with two doses of the chickenpox vaccine, they can start the school year protected," said State Health Officer Dr. Kathy Lofy.