Varizella zoster virus (PCR)

Swab (blister contents)

The varicella zoster virus (VZV) is a highly contagious virus that causes two different diseases in humans: chickenpox (varicella) and shingles (herpes zoster).

Chickenpox is a common childhood disease characterised by a rash of itchy, fluid-filled blisters that eventually scab over. It is usually accompanied by fever, fatigue and general malaise. Chickenpox is highly contagious and is transmitted by direct contact with the rash or by droplet infection.

After chickenpox has healed, the virus remains present in the dorsal root ganglia in an inactive state for the rest of the patient's life. Later in life, the virus can be reactivated and cause shingles. Shingles is characterised by a painful rash, typically in the form of a band or strip of blisters on one side of the body. It is often accompanied by severe pain, itching and tingling. Shingles can occur at any age, but is more common in older adults and people with weakened immune systems.

In addition to herpes simplex virus 1 & 2, an infection with or reactivation of the varicella zoster virus can also lead to viral encephalitis.