Use

Varicella-zoster virus (VZV), a herpes virus, causes two distinct exanthematous diseases: chickenpox and herpes zoster (shingles). Diagnosing the acute-phase infection with VZV is important, especially in high-risk populations. These include pregnant women, immunocompromised patients, and hospital personnel who may spread the infection. While the clinical presentation is usually characteristic, serologic evaluation is needed for atypical or systemic infections, especially in hospital settings, to prevent nosocomial infections which can be life-threatening to immunocompromised patients.