Varicella Zoster Virus
Varicella Zoster virus (VZV) is a highly contagious virus responsible for chickenpox and shingles. It is a member of the human Herpesviridae family of viruses and is capable of causing lifelong infections. Infections with VZV can be mild or severe, ranging from a mild rash in healthy individuals to serious, sometimes fatal, illness in individuals with weakened immunity. Chickenpox is the primary infection, and shingles is the secondary infection. The virus can cause both diseases in healthy individuals as well as in individuals with weakened immune systems. Treatment for VZV infections include antiviral medications and vaccinations. Vaccination is the most effective way of preventing VZV infections, and is recommended for individuals in contact with high risk individuals, such as those with weakened immune systems, health care workers, and individuals traveling to certain countries.
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