What are varicella zoster virus infections (CHICKENPOX AND SHINGLES) and how to protect yourself?

Varicola zoster virus (VZV) is a virus that causes diseases such as chickenpox and shingles. Chickenpox is a contagious disease that is usually seen in childhood and causes itchy rashes on the body. Shingles is a painful infection that affects the nerves and occurs more often in adults, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems.

Chickenpox is a disease transmitted by air or direct contact. The virus can be easily spread by an infected person's cough or sneeze. The disease is usually mild, but it can cause serious complications in people with weakened immune systems. Fever, weakness and rashes with water-filled blisters on the body are the most obvious symptoms of the disease.

A person who has had chickenpox may experience shingles years later when the virus becomes active again. This occurs when the virus remains dormant in nerve cells for many years and then reappears when the immune system weakens. Shingles usually manifests itself as painful rashes in a specific area of ​​the body.

Diagnosis of VZV infections can be made based on the patient's clinical symptoms. In cases of chickenpox, typical itchy rashes make diagnosis easier, while in cases of shingles, rashes usually appear along the line followed by nerves. Laboratory tests can also be performed for a definitive diagnosis.

Methods are applied to relieve symptoms in the treatment of chickenpox. Antihistamines can be used to reduce itching and drugs such as paracetamol to reduce fever. Antiviral drugs may be necessary in patients with suppressed immune systems.

In the treatment of shingles, antiviral drugs are recommended to control pain and shorten the duration of the disease. Starting treatment early can reduce the severity of the disease and prevent long-term pain due to nerve damage (postherpetic neuralgia). Painkillers and nerve-soothing drugs can be used to relieve pain.

The chickenpox vaccine is the most effective way to protect against the disease. Vaccination in childhood significantly reduces the risk of developing chickenpox and shingles in later ages. It is especially recommended that individuals with weak immune systems be vaccinated to prevent chickenpox.

The shingles vaccine can help prevent the virus from reactivating in individuals who have had chickenpox. This vaccine is especially recommended for individuals aged 50 and over. Vaccination can reduce both the severity of shingles and the risk of developing long-term nerve pain.

Varicella zoster virus infections are mild in most people, but can cause serious problems in individuals with weak immune systems. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are important to minimize the effects of the disease. Vaccination is the most reliable way to protect against these diseases and plays a major role in protecting public health.