Varicella-zoster virus (VZV)
Primary infection with VZV causes the disease varicella.
- commonly known as chickenpox
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Like all of the neurotropic herpesviruses, VZV stays with host for life and establishes latent infection in nervous system.
Much later in life (e.g. 70 years), the same VZV virus can re-awaken and cause a condition known as herpes zoster.
- commonly known as shingles