What Does VZV Stand For?

VZV stands for Varicella Zoster Virus

VZV, or Varicella Zoster Virus, is a virus belonging to the herpesvirus family responsible for causing chickenpox (varicella) in children and shingles (herpes zoster) in adults. After the initial infection, the virus remains dormant in the nervous system and can reactivate later in life, leading to shingles. VZV is contagious and primarily spreads through respiratory droplets or direct contact with the fluid from chickenpox blisters. Vaccination is available to prevent both chickenpox and shingles, significantly reducing incidence and severity of the diseases.