herpes varicella zoster virus
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Definition
- Noun:
- A herpesvirus that causes chickenpox and shingles: The herpes varicella zoster virus is a specific human herpesvirus. It is the causative agent of two distinct diseases: varicella (commonly known as chickenpox), typically during initial infection, and herpes zoster (commonly known as shingles), which is a reactivation of the latent virus later in life.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The herpes varicella zoster virus is highly contagious and spreads through direct contact or airborne droplets.
- After a person recovers from chickenpox, the herpes varicella zoster virus remains dormant in the nervous system.
- A vaccine is available to protect against the herpes varicella zoster virus.
Advanced Usage
- Medical/Clinical Context: The term is used precisely in virology, immunology, and clinical medicine to refer to the specific pathogen, distinguishing it from other herpesviruses like herpes simplex virus.
- The patient's symptoms were consistent with a reactivation of the herpes varicella zoster virus.
Variants and Related Words
- Varicella-zoster virus (VZV): This is the standard abbreviated form and synonym for "herpes varicella zoster virus." It is more commonly used in medical literature.
- The varicella-zoster virus (VZV) belongs to the Alphaherpesvirinae subfamily.
- Human herpesvirus 3 (HHV-3): This is the formal taxonomic designation for the same virus.
- Human herpesvirus 3 is another name for the virus that causes chickenpox.
Synonyms
- Varicella-zoster virus (VZV): The most direct and commonly used synonym.
- Human herpesvirus 3 (HHV-3): The formal virological synonym.
Related Phrases
- Primary infection with VZV: Refers to the initial infection causing chickenpox.
- Primary infection with VZV usually occurs in childhood.
- Reactivation of VZV: Refers to the virus becoming active again, causing shingles.
- Reactivation of VZV is often associated with aging or immunosuppression.
Noun
- a herpes virus that causes chickenpox and shingles