The Varicella Zoster Virus

By Diane P. Kandray, RDH, EdD and Joan O’Connell-Spalla, MSEd, MT(ASCP)

Shingles is a viral infection caused by reactivation of the varicella zoster virus (VZV). Approximately 1 million cases of shingles are diagnosed each year in the United States, and these numbers continue to rise. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that nearly one out of three people in the US will develop shingles in their lifetime.¹ This condition typically affects individuals older than age 50. Symptoms may be extremely painful and can significantly interfere with daily activities. Oral health professionals may encounter an individual with shingles or be afflicted themselves and thus must be prepared to recognize the signs and symptoms of shingles, especially those appearing in and around the oral cavity.

* References can be found in the original article via the link below.
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