Medical Surveillance Monthly Report (MSMR). Volume 3, Number 7, October 1997
Abstract
When varicella zoster virus (VZV) infects healthy children, it generally causes chickenpox, a mild self-limited febrile illness with a characteristic vesicular rash. VZV infections of older or immunocompromised hosts can have more serious clinical consequences (e.g., primary VZV pneumonia). 1 Primary VZV infection generally results in lifelong immunity against chickenpox recurrences ? and latent infection of dorsal root ganglia. Reactivation of VZV later in life causes herpes zoster (shingles) a painful herpetic rash in the distribution of sensory nerves of affected ganglia. VZV spreads from person to person by direct contact or via the respiratory route. It is extremely contagious, and most Americans are infected as children. VZV can spread with remarkable efficiency among immunologically na?ve members of military units. The potential for VZV to cause outbreaks in military settings, disrupting military operations and training, defines to a great extent its military importance.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA497660
Entities
People
- John Brundage
- Kimmie Kohlhase
- Lisa Pearse
- Mark V Rubertone
Organizations
- Armed Forces Health Surveillance Center