varicellazosterviruksen

Varicellazostervirus is a member of the herpesvirus family. It is responsible for two distinct diseases in humans: chickenpox and shingles. Initially, infection with varicellazostervirus causes chickenpox, also known as varicella. This is a highly contagious illness characterized by an itchy rash with small, fluid-filled blisters that eventually crust over. Chickenpox is most common in childhood, but can occur at any age.

After a person recovers from chickenpox, the varicellazostervirus remains dormant in the body, typically residing in nerve tissue. Years or even decades later, the virus can reactivate, leading to shingles, also known as herpes zoster. Shingles is characterized by a painful, blistering rash that usually appears on one side of the body, often in a band-like pattern. The pain associated with shingles can sometimes precede the appearance of the rash and may persist long after the rash has cleared, a condition known as postherpetic neuralgia.

Transmission of varicellazostervirus occurs through direct contact with the fluid from the blisters of an infected person or through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus is shed from the time shortly before the rash appears until all the blisters have crusted over. Vaccination is available for both chickenpox and shingles, significantly reducing the risk of infection and the severity of the diseases.