Varicella-zoster virus

Etiology

Taxonomy

| Order = Herpesvirales | Family = Herpesviridae | Genus = Varicellovirus | Species = Human herpesvirus 3

Description

The varicella-zoster virus has the potential to cause two diseases: chickenpox (varicella) and shingles (herpes zoster). Before the development of a varicella vaccine in 1994, chickenpox was a common contagious childhood illness. It would produce itchy blisters throughout the body but rarely led to any serious problems. Once an individual has had chickenpox, the varicella-virus is able to lay dormant in the nerves and can reemerge as shingles. Although shingles is not life threatening, it is characterized by a painful rash of blisters. Some people that have acquired shingles can develop a condition called postherpetic neuralgia which results in pain in the skin even after the rash is gone. Shingles is most common in people over 60 and in those with a weakened immune system. A herpes zoster vaccine is available to reduce the risk of developing shingles.[1]

References

1 University of Maryland Medical Center. Varicella-zoster virus
2 Mayo Clinic. Varicella Virus Vaccine (Subcutaneous Route)