The varicella-zoster virus is a member of the herpes virus family.
It causes two distinct diseases:
Chickenpox (varicella)
This is typically the primary infection, usually occurring in childhood.
It manifests as an itchy, blister-like rash, fever, and general discomfort.
Chickenpox is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets or direct contact with the rash.
Shingles (herpes zoster)
This is a reactivation of the same virus that causes chickenpox.
After the initial chickenpox infection, the virus remains dormant in the nerve tissues and can reactivate later in life, typically when the immune system is weakened.
Shingles is characterised by a painful rash that usually appears on one side of the body or face.
Important varicella-zoster virus facts
- it’s a type of herpes virus
- it can cause chickenpox, shingles and other infections
- it can style in your nerve cells even after you’ve recovered from chickenpox
- both chickenpox and shingles can be prevented through vaccination
- the varicella vaccine is commonly given to children to prevent chickenpox. It’s free through the National Immunisation Program
- the shingles vaccine is recommended for older adults to reduce the risk and severity of shingles. Certain people are eligible to get it free through the National Immunisation Program
- if it’s reactivated, it can cause meningitis, encephalitis and meningoencephalitis (brain or lining infection), eye shingles, facial paralysis. While serious, these are rare conditions
References
- Chickenpox and shingles (varicella / herpes zoster). Department of Health, Victoria, Australia. Accessed 19 July 2024
- Chickenpox (varicella) vaccine. Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. Accessed 19 July 2024
- Shingles (herpes-zoster). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, USA. Accessed 19 July 2024
- Varicella-zoster virus (chickenpox). National Institutes of Health, USA. Accessed 19 July 2024
Last reviewed and updated: 19 July 2024
