Introduction Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV), a member of the Herpesviridae family, is a highly contagious virus responsible for two distinct clinical manifestations: varicella (commonly known as chickenpox) and herpes zoster (shingles). Varicella represents the primary infection, generally affecting children, while herpes zoster is a reactivation of the dormant virus, usually in older adults or immunocompromised individuals. This article provides a detailed analysis of VZV, including its structure, transmission, pathophysiology, clinical presentations, diagnosis, prevention, treatment, and potential complications. 1. Structure and Classification of Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV) VZV is an enveloped, double-stranded DNA virus that belongs to the Herpesviridae family, subfamily Alphaherpesvirinae . This subfamily includes other human pathogens such as Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (HSV-1) and Herpes Simplex Virus 2 (HSV-2). The following are the structural characteristics of VZV: Genome : VZV con...
Good health for a high quality life