The varicella-zoster virus (VZV) causes both varicella and herpes zoster. Although varicella usually causes a mild infection in healthy children, it is highly contagious and can trigger a serious infection in high-risk populations, such as immunocompromised individuals, pregnant women, and neonates. Nosocomial transmission of VZV can be attributed to the delay in diagnosis and failure to implement prompt control measures. Early detection and isolation of patients with varicella are important in healthcare settings. The management of individuals exposed to VZV should take into consideration the type of exposure, the individual’s evidence of immunity, and host-immune status. Healthcare workers (HCWs) are not only at a higher risk of VZV infection from patients but can also in turn spread it to high-risk patients. Therefore, all HCWs should be screened for VZV immunity and, if found susceptible, should be vaccinated. This article focuses on managing cases of varicella or herpes zoster in healthcare settings to prevent nosocomial transmission of VZV.

Keywords: Chickenpox, Herpes zoster, Varicella-zoster virus infection