Royals' chickenpox outbreak sidelines Rios, Herrera

Kansas City Royals outfielder Alex Rios and reliever Kelvin Herrera are expected to miss up to two weeks after the pair became infected with chickenpox over the weekend, team officials confirmed Tuesday.

Rios, according to Andy McCullough of The Kansas City Star, was the first Royals player to be diagnosed with the disease, which can develop into pneumonia in adults. Both players have been quarantined from the team.

"We're on alert," team trainer Nick Kenney told the Star. "We’ve got our guys knowing that they've got to pay attention to what they're seeing. And if you do see anything, we need to see it and we need to inspect it."

The Royals have reached out to players, coaches and their families to determine whether anyone else has had chickenpox or may be at risk. Several teammates weighed in on the outbreak prior to Tuesday's opener against Detroit.

"I think I've had all my rabies shot," newly acquired outfielder Jonny Gomes joked to reporters.

Salvador Perez and Edinson Volquez, meanwhile, both sounded unconcerned about contracting the disease, saying they already had it during their childhood.

The disease is highly contagious, spread through the air via coughing or sneezing and sometimes by touching. It causes a blister-like rash, fever and tiredness. It can be serious for people with weakened immune systems.

- With files from The Associated Press