Varicella (chickenpox)

Varicella (chickenpox) is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). After a person has had chickenpox, the virus remains in the body without being active.

Shingles (herpes zoster) occurs when the chickenpox virus (VZV), which remains in the body after a previous infection, is reactivated in a specific area.

Approximately 95% of the Dutch population is protected against chickenpox.

Chickenpox: fever, malaise, and an itchy, blistering rash that starts on the trunk and spreads to the face and limbs.

Shingles: painful rash with blisters, usually limited to a dermatome.

• Chickenpox: via droplets and mucous membrane contact with fluid from blisters of an infected person.
• Shingles: direct contact with fluid from blisters of an infected person.

1-2 days before the rash appears until all blisters have dried up.

10-21 days (usually 14-16).

Vaccination is available. The vaccine should not be administered during pregnancy. In the Netherlands, 95% of the population has antibodies, providing lifelong protection.

• Pregnant women: increased risk of serious complications such as varicella pneumonia in case of primary infection.
• Fetus: risk of congenital varicella syndrome, skin scarring, neurological abnormalities, and limb abnormalities. This is particularly true in cases of maternal infection before 20 weeks of gestation..
• Newborns: mothers who develop visible chickenpox 7 days before or 7 days after giving birth.

No specific risk groups can be identified as having an increased risk of contracting an infection.

• People with underlying chronic conditions.
• People with weakened immunity.

Approximately 95% of the Dutch population is protected, and individuals are contagious before symptoms appear.

See SRI guideline on isolation. Depending on the isolation policy of your umc: surgical IIR mouth-nose mask, gloves, apron, or isolation gown. For aerosol-generating procedures: FFP2 mask and safety goggles.

In individuals with a history of chicken pox no follow-up is necessary. In those without prior infection, testing for antibodies against varicella-zoster virus should be performed. If non-immune pregnant women have been exposed, consider administering immunoglobulin (as soon as possible, no later than 10 days after exposure). Contact your occupational health and safety service for advice.

• Chickenpox | LCI guideline RIVM
• Shingles | LCI guideline RIVM