VZ Viruses refers to a group of viruses that belong to the Varicellazoster virus (VZV) family. Varicella-zoster viruses are a type of herpesvirus that primarily infects humans. They are important infectious agents responsible for causing two distinct clinical manifestations, namely chickenpox (varicella) and shingles (herpes zoster).
Chickenpox, typically affecting children, is characterized by a widespread, itchy rash consisting of tiny, fluid-filled blisters that eventually crust over. This highly contagious viral infection spreads through direct contact with skin lesions or through respiratory droplets, making it easily transmissible within households, schools, or other close-knit communities.
Upon primary infection, the VZ viruses establish latency in sensory ganglia, specifically in the dorsal root ganglia, cranial nerve ganglia, and autonomic ganglia. This latent phase can persist throughout a person's lifetime, remaining dormant until it reactivates to cause shingles later in life. Shingles is characterized by a painful rash that typically occurs in a dermatomal distribution along nerve pathways, usually limited to one side of the body.
In addition, VZ viruses can pose serious health risks to immunocompromised individuals, pregnant women, and newborns. Therefore, vaccination against VZV is recommended to prevent primary infection or reduce the severity and complications associated with the virus.
Overall, VZ Viruses are a group of herpesviruses responsible for causing chickenpox and shingles, displaying specific characteristics and transmission patterns.
