Varicella-Zoster Virus
A member of the family of herpes viruses, which causes the diseases varicella (CHICKEN POX) and herpes zoster (SHINGLES). When the virus enters the upper respiratory tract of a nonimmune host, it produces the skin lesions of chicken pox. The virus then passes from skin to sensory ganglia, where it establishes a latent infection. When the patient’s immunity to HSV fades away, the virus replicates within the ganglia and results in shingles (herpes zoster).
The virus is highly contagious and may be spread by direct contact or droplets. However, dried crusts of the skin lesions do not contain the virus.
The virus is highly contagious and may be spread by direct contact or droplets. However, dried crusts of the skin lesions do not contain the virus.
Posted in Health and Wellness
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