MedWorm: Chickenpox

Post-varicella cerebral thrombophlebitis with anti-protein S: report of a pediatric case.

Annales de Biologie Clinique — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

We report the case of a 6 year old with no history individuals who experienced cerebral thrombophlebitis, 3 weeks after varicella. MRI, performed at admission, has objectified longitudinal sinus thrombosis and a frontal parenchymal hematoma law. Meanwhile, a recent varicella seroconversion was demonstrated. The assessment of thrombophilia, meanwhile, has objectified a significant decrease in free protein S and activity, without associated DIC. Origin acquired this deficit was confirmed by the detection of antibodies (IgG and IgM) against the total protein S by ELISA. After evaluation of the benefit/risk only anticoagulation was initiated. The clinical and biological evolution was favorable, with rapid normalization of the S protein and decrease of anti-protein S. Many studies report the pr...

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Why are children on the NSW North Coast not being vaccinated against chickenpox?

New South Wales Public Health Bulletin — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 04:07:07 +0100

Authors: Trent M PMID: 22243638 [PubMed - in process] (Source: New South Wales Public Health Bulletin)

Chickenpox Can Be Serious: Protect Your Child

MedlinePlus Health News — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 01:14:59 +0100

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Related MedlinePlus Page: Chickenpox (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)

Manta Rays Endangered by Sudden Demand from Chinese Medicine

Scientific American - Official RSS Feed — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 21:20:00 +0100

Demand for the gills of manta and mobula rays has risen dramatically in the past 10 years for use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), even though they were not historically used for this purpose, a team of researchers from the conservation organizations Shark Savers and WildAid has discovered.“We first came across manta and mobula ray gills in Asian markets several years ago, and followed the trail to the dried seafood markets of southern China,” Manta Ray of Hope Project lead investigator Paul Hilton said in a prepared statement ( pdf ) released on January 14. Specifically, the market was for gill rakers, the thin filaments that manta and mobula rays use to filter food from the water, which are being sold for up to $500 per kilogram. TCM practitioners are marketing the rake...

Unencumbered by facts: what upsets me most about the anti-vaccine movement

Thrive, Children's Hospital Boston — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 13:30:11 +0100

Recently I watched a clip of Andrew Wakefield being interviewed on Good Morning America, and it gave me the chills. Andrew Wakefield, if you haven’t heard of him, is the guy who pretty much singlehandedly scared thousands of parents away from the MMR vaccine with a study he published in the Lancet linking the vaccine with autism. The study has since been retracted, something journals almost never do, after it was discovered that data in it was falsified. Not only that, Wakefield lost his medical license. But is he backing down? No way. On the contrary: he is suing the British Medical Journal (from Texas) for defamation. And he is still defending his findings. It was stunning to watch. George Stephanopoulos, who was interviewing him, pointed out that his colleagues who worked with him h...

The health and economic burden of chickenpox and herpes zoster in Belgium.

Herpes — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

In conclusion, both diseases cause a substantial burden in Belgium. PMID: 22230041 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Herpes)

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Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and survivin induction by varicella-zoster virus promote replication and skin pathogenesis [Microbiology]

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) is a human α-herpesvirus that causes varicella (chickenpox) during primary infection and zoster (shingles) upon reactivation. Like other viruses, VZV must subvert the intrinsic antiviral defenses of differentiated human cells to produce progeny virions. Accordingly, VZV inhibits the activation of the cellular transcription factors IFN regulatory factor 3 (IRF3) and signal transducers and activators of transcription 1 (STAT1), thereby downregulating antiviral factors, including IFNs. Conversely, in this study, we found that VZV triggers STAT3 phosphorylation in cells infected in vitro and in human skin xenografts in SCID mice in vivo and that STAT3 activation induces the anti-apoptotic protein survivin. Small-molecule inhibitors of STAT3 phosphorylation and sur...

Can the sun stop chickenpox?

NHS News Feed — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 17:30:00 +0100

Conclusion In this research article, one researcher presents his explanation for the patterns of chickenpox cases worldwide and for the distribution of different types of the virus. He suggests that ultraviolet radiation could reduce the spread of the virus. He also proposes a number of ways that this hypothesis could be tested. However, these experiments have not been performed yet, and positive results would be required to support his explanation. In addition, this hypothesis does not have support from all experts on chickenpox, and in an accompanying article, other experts explain why they disagree with it. Links To The Headlines Sun 'stops chickenpox spreading'. BBC News, December 19 2011, Science Links To Science Rice PS. Ultra-violet radiation is responsible for the differences in ...

Sun's UV Rays May Stop Spread Of Chickenpox

Health News from Medical News Today — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 15:00:00 +0100

If you look at the evidence to date from a different perspective, a virologist at St George's Hospital, University of London in the UK believes it suggests the sun's UV rays inactivate the chickenpox virus on the skin before it has a chance to transmit to another person, thus explaining why the disease spreads less readily in tropical countries. Dr Phil Rice told the press last week he hopes his findings will lead to new ways to prevent chickenpox and its more severe cousin, shingles... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

UV rays 'could help prevent the spread of chickenpox'

the Mail online | Health — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 11:00:53 +0100

Ultraviolet rays could help prevent the spread of the common childhood malady chickenpox, according to a virologist from the University of London. (Source: the Mail online | Health)

What Is Chickenpox (Varicella)? What Causes Chickenpox?

Health News from Medical News Today — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 08:00:00 +0100

Chickenpox (Chicken Pox), also known as Varicella is a very contagious infection caused by the varicella zoster virus. In several parts of the world it is just known as varicella. Patients develop a blister-like rash, which first appears on the face and trunk, and then spreads throughout the body. There are typically between 250 to 500 itchy blisters. In the majority of cases, the pox marks heal up without scarring. Being an airborne disease, chicken pox spreads easily and rapidly through sneezing and coughing, as well as direct contact with the secretions from the blisters... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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Sun 'stops chickenpox spreading'

BBC News | Health | UK Edition — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 00:04:54 +0100

Exposure to sunlight may help impede the spread of chickenpox, claim researchers. (Source: BBC News | Health | UK Edition)

Chickenpox Parties to Avoid Vaccination

Sound Medicine — Sat, 17 Dec 2011 04:00:01 +0100

We were intrigued recently by a story in the news and on the internet, and especially on Facebook, about chickenpox parties, and even chickenpox lollipops -- tricks parents are using to avoid having their children vaccinated Sound Medicine's Dr. Kathy Miller asks pediatrician Rachel Vreeman about the wisdom of avoiding vaccinations by infecting your kids. Rachel Vreeman is assistant professo.... (Source: Sound Medicine)

Ultraviolet Rays Believed To Prevent Chickenpox Spreading

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 09:00:00 +0100

Ultraviolet rays help prevent the spread of chickenpox, meaning people in milder climates are more at risk of catching the disease, according to new research. The discovery could lead to new ways of preventing chickenpox and its more severe relative, shingles. A researcher at St George's, University of London has found that chickenpox is much less common in places with high UV ray levels, compared with those with low levels. It has long been known that UV rays can inactivate viruses... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Sequencing and characterization of Varicella Zoster virus vaccine strain SuduVax

Virology Journal — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The Korean VZV vaccine strain SuduVax is genetically similar to the Oka vaccine strains. Further comparative genomic and bioinformatics analyses will help to elucidate the molecular basis of the attenuation of the VZV vaccine strains. (Source: Virology Journal)

Epidemiological Characteristics of Varicella from 2000 to 2008 and the impact of nationwide immunization in Taiwan

BMC Infectious Diseases — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Background: Varicella has an important impact on public health. Starting in 2004 in Taiwan, nationwide free varicella vaccinations were given to 1-year-old children. Methods: Our study investigated the epidemiological characteristics of varicella from 2000 to 2008, and assessed the change of varicella epidemiology after the mass varicella immunization. ICD-9-CM codes related to varicella or chickenpox (052, 052.1, 052.2, 052.7, 052.8, 052.9) were analyzed for all young people under 20 years of age through the National Health Insurance database of Taiwan from 2000 to 2008. Results: Case numbers of varicella or chickenpox significantly declined after the nationwide immunization in 2004. Winter, particularly January, was the epidemic season of varicella. We found a significant post-vaccinatio...

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Getting to Happy

Psychology Today Parenting Center — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 23:30:00 +0100

I asked a dozen of the world's top psychology researchers, "How do you stop a mental disorder before it starts?" Here's what they told me. Primary Topic: Happiness read more (Source: Psychology Today Parenting Center)

Natural alteration of antibody titers in a patient with immunoglobulin A deficiency after chickenpox over a 10‐year period

Pediatrics International — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Pediatrics International)

Chickenpox Vaccination of Children Helps Protect Infants, Too

eMedicineHealth.com — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 07:00:00 +0100

(Source: eMedicineHealth.com)

Don’t play chicken with this virus

Health Facts and Fears — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

The chickenpox vaccine doesn’t protect only the inoculated child; it also protects infants who are too young to be vaccinated but for whom the disease is especially dangerous. (Source: Health Facts and Fears)

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Fewer Babies Get Chicken Pox When Kids Are Vaccinated

MedlinePlus Health News — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 22:46:57 +0100

Even though babies under one year old are too young to get the chicken pox vaccine, far fewer of them got the itchy rash after the U.S. started routinely vaccinating older children in 1995, according to a new study.Source: Reuters Health Related MedlinePlus Pages: Chickenpox, Childhood Immunization, Infant and Newborn Care (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)

Chickenpox Vaccination of Children Helps Protect Infants, Too

WebMD Health — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 19:37:42 +0100

Chickenpox infection can be life-threatening for infants who are too young to receive the chickenpox vaccine. The good news is that the routine vaccination of children aged 1 and older has shown spillover benefits for infants. (Source: WebMD Health)

Chickenpox vaccine protects unvaccinated? What study says

Health News: CBSNews.com — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 18:04:56 +0100

Since U.S. Varicella Vaccination Program kicked off in 1995, fewer unvaccinated infants die from chickenpox - Why? (Source: Health News: CBSNews.com)

Sib's Chickenpox Vaccine May Protect Infants, Too (CME/CE)

MedPage Today Pediatrics — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 15:00:00 +0100

(MedPage Today) -- The varicella vaccination program in the U.S. may be indirectly benefiting infants too young to get the vaccine directly, according to the results of a prospective study. (Source: MedPage Today Pediatrics)

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From polio to chickenpox, vaccines run gamut

USATODAY.com Health — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 13:22:47 +0100

Most people don't think about polio and diphtheria. Those diseases have been stamped out in the United States, largely because of vaccines. (Source: USATODAY.com Health)

Births at home or in hospital: risks explained

NHS News Feed — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 17:55:00 +0100

This report will no doubt be of interest to parents who are planning where to have their baby and wish to discuss their options with their midwife or GP. What did the study look at? This large English study was designed to take a detailed look at the risks associated with different settings where women with low-risk pregnancies planned to give birth. A low-risk pregnancy is one where the mother and baby are not affected by conditions or circumstances that can complicate the birth (see What is a low-risk pregnancy? for further details). The study compared home births, midwifery units run outside of a hospital setting, obstetric unit births in hospitals and births in ‘alongside midwifery units’, which are midwife-led units on a hospital site that also have an obstetric unit. Its anal...

Popping pox in the post

The Irish Times - Health — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 00:16:00 +0100

THE OFFER – for lollipops infected with chickenpox virus – appeared on Facebook last month and quickly circulated among parents in the US who oppose vaccinating their children against diseases. (Source: The Irish Times - Health)

A case of widespread hypertrophic scarring in a child after chickenpox

Clinical And Experimental Dermatology — Sat, 19 Nov 2011 22:24:49 +0100

(Source: Clinical And Experimental Dermatology)

Well Blog: 'Pox Parties' in the Age of Facebook

NYT Health — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 22:01:21 +0100

Parents who oppose vaccinating their children are turning to social networking in an effort to infect their children with chickenpox. (Source: NYT Health)

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Well: 'Pox Parties' in the Age of Facebook

NYT Health — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 22:01:21 +0100

Parents who oppose vaccinating their children are turning to social networking in an effort to infect their children with chickenpox. (Source: NYT Health)

Leaving health to luck?

Thrive, Children's Hospital Boston — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 13:24:05 +0100

Claire McCarthy, MD Avoiding the chickenpox vaccine has been in the news recently, with the story of a company offering lollipops licked by kids with chickenpox as a way to give your child the illness. Some parents, apparently, would rather use those lollipops, or take their child to a chickenpox party to play with infected kids, than give their child the vaccine. It got me thinking about my mother and her quest to give me chickenpox when I was a child. She would have drawn the line at the lollipops (which is a ludicrous idea—not only is it incredibly unlikely to work, but who knows what other germs were in that kid’s mouth), but she would have taken me to the parties in a heartbeat. She did her own version: she took me to play with neighborhood kids when they got chickenpox. My mot...

Swapping Chicken Pox-Infected Lollipops Illegal

MedlinePlus Health News — Sat, 12 Nov 2011 20:06:33 +0100

A federal prosecutor is warning parents against trading chicken pox-laced lollipops by mail in what authorities describe as misguided attempts to expose their children to the virus to build immunity later in life.Source: Reuters Health Related MedlinePlus Page: Chickenpox (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)

Video: HealthPop: Going gray, pox pops, motor minds

Health News: CBSNews.com — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 22:36:59 +0100

L'Oreal reveals that company scientists are developing a pill to prevent gray hair; Also, parents opposed to vaccinations turn to buying and selling lollipops licked by kids with chickenpox; And, scientists are trying to determine if exposure to traffic exhaust can damage your brain. (Source: Health News: CBSNews.com)

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Why do parents buy chickenpox lollies?

BBC News | Health | UK Edition — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 14:05:26 +0100

Why would a parent buy an infected lollipop? (Source: BBC News | Health | UK Edition)

Doctor aghast as lollipops used to spread chickenpox

CTV Health — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 13:57:07 +0100

A specialist in infectious diseases in children says she is shocked by reports that some parents in the U.S. are trading chickenpox-contaminated lollipops in an effort to naturally immunize their children, rather than get the chickenpox vaccine. (Source: CTV Health)

American parents caught selling chickenpox-infected lollipops

Telegraph Health — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 18:44:26 +0100

American parents have been caught selling chickenpox-infected lollipops to other families who want their children to catch the virus while they are young. (Source: Telegraph Health)

Mailing "chickenpox lollipops" called illegal, risky

Health News: CBSNews.com — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 14:20:00 +0100

Fear of childhood vaccines said leading some parents to buy chickenpox-tainted candy and personal items to infect their own kids (Source: Health News: CBSNews.com)

Incidence of Vesicobullous and Erosive Disorders of Neonates: Where and How Much to Worry?

Indian Journal of Pediatrics — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 17:18:18 +0100

Conclusions Certain specific considerations have to be born in mind while evaluating and managing neonatal dermatoses. Care has to be instituted to identify accurately infectious diseases and distinguish them from benign transient neonatal dermatoses. Some disorders first manifesting during the neonatal period may also represent harbingers of potential problems during adulthood. Finally, treatment modalities are instituted taking in account the actual diagnosis and judging if the treatment really is required or not. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticlePages 1-5DOI 10.1007/s12098-011-0592-9Authors Tarang Goyal, Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, Muzaffarnagar Medical College and Hospital, Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, IndiaAnupam...

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Comparative genomic hybridisation analysis of keloid tissue in Caucasians suggests possible involvement of HLA-DRB5 in disease pathogenesis

Archives of Dermatological Research — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 06:05:33 +0100

In conclusion, these preliminary findings further support the possible contribution of the HLA genes in KD pathogenesis. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Short CommunicationPages 1-9DOI 10.1007/s00403-011-1182-4Authors Barbara Shih, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Research, School of Translational Medicine, The Manchester Interdisciplinary Biocentre (MIB), University of Manchester, 131 Princess Street, Manchester, M17ND UKArdeshir Bayat, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Research, School of Translational Medicine, The Manchester Interdisciplinary Biocentre (MIB), University of Manchester, 131 Princess Street, Manchester, M17ND UK Journal Archives of Dermatological ResearchOnline ISSN 1432-069XPrint ISSN 0340-3696 (Source: Archives of Dermatological Research)

Chickenpox in childhood is associated with decreased atopic disorders, IgE, allergic sensitization, and leukocyte subsets

Pediatric Allergy and Immunology — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 22:41:06 +0100

Conclusion: WTVZV up to 8 yr of age protects against atopic disorders, which is likely mediated by suppression of IgE production and allergic sensitization, as well as altered leukocyte distributions. (Source: Pediatric Allergy and Immunology)

Recovery of a 13-Year-Old With Pediatric Ramsay Hunt SyndromeRecovery of a 13-Year-Old With Pediatric Ramsay Hunt Syndrome

Medscape Today Headlines — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 12:02:17 +0100

Ramsay Hunt syndrome, an uncommon sequela of chickenpox, is rare in children. This case report documents the clinical manifestations and outcome of a pediatric case. Journal of Medical Case Reports (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Chickenpox

eMedicineHealth.com — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 07:00:00 +0100

(Source: eMedicineHealth.com)

Herpes zoster during pregnancy.

Canadian Family Physician Medecin de Famille Canadien — Sat, 01 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Authors: Pupco A, Bozzo P, Koren G Abstract Question One of my pregnant patients, a 32-year-old woman (gravida 2, para 1), has a flare up of herpes zoster (HZ) at the T11 to T12 dermatomes. This virus, the varicella-zoster virus, causes chickenpox, which can be teratogenic. Is this also true for HZ? Answer Herpes zoster, unlike chickenpox, is not associated with increased fetal risk. In contrast, a nonimmune woman exposed to HZ by contact might contract chickenpox. PMID: 21998226 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Canadian Family Physician Medecin de Famille Canadien)

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Epidemiologic lessons: Chickenpox outbreak investigation in a rural community around Chandigarh, North India.

Indian Journal of Pathology and Microbiology — Sat, 01 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: There is an urgent need to identify naive communities and unvaccinated individuals at risk. Also, there is a need for regular training programmes of health workers posted in peripheral centers so that highly contagious communicable diseases can be picked up in time and such outbreaks can be prevented. PMID: 22234108 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Indian Journal of Pathology and Microbiology)

Simultaneous infection of measles and varicella‐zoster virus in a child in India

Journal of Medical Virology — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 10:50:53 +0100

Respiratory alkalosis in children with febrile seizures

Epilepsia — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

SummaryPurpose: Febrile seizures (FS) are the most common type of convulsive events in children. FS are suggested to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. However, the pathophysiologic mechanisms underlying FS remain unclear. Using an animal model of experimental FS, it was demonstrated that hyperthermia causes respiratory alkalosis with consequent brain alkalosis and seizures. Hewre we examine the acid–base status of children who were admitted to the hospital for FS. Children who were admitted because of gastroenteritis (GE), a condition known to promote acidosis, were examined to investigate a possible protective effect of acidosis against FS.Methods: We enrolled 433 age‐matched children with similar levels of fever from two groups presented to the eme...

Hand, foot and mouth disease

Journal of Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Radhika Muppa, Prameela Bhupatiraju, Mahesh Duddu, Arthi DandempallyJournal of Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry 2011 29(2):165-167Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is an acute viral illness with a distinct clinical presentation of oral and characteristic distal extremity lesions. Knowledge of this is important for the dentists as the oral lesions are the first clinical signs and sometimes may be the only sign because the condition occasionally may regress even before the lesions appear on the extremities. This case describes a 5-year-old boy in whom low-grade fever of 38.7°C and oral lesions were the initial manifestations. Proper diagnosis was established later based on the typical location of the initial intraoral ulcers on the soft palate followed by ...

Acute ITP Due to Insect Bite: Report of 2 Cases

Clinical and Applied Thrombosis/Hemostasis — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) of childhood is a common hematologic disorder. Immune thrombocytopenic purpura is characterized by increased destruction of antibody-coated platelets in the reticuloendothelial system. In the majority of children with acute ITP, thrombocytopenia occurs within 1 to 3 weeks after an infectious disease. Immune thrombocytopenic purpura may also occur after rubella, rubeola, chickenpox, or live virus vaccination. Here we report 2 cases with acute ITP that were developed after honeybee and insect bite. (Source: Clinical and Applied Thrombosis/Hemostasis)

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Two chickenpox shots are better than one, docs say

CTV Health — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 14:39:41 +0100

All children should receive two shots of the chickenpox vaccine, to ensure that they are protected from the illness for a lifetime, Canada's pediatricians recommend in a new position statement. (Source: CTV Health)

[Case Report] Lumbar puncture in paediatric stroke

LANCET — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100

In April, 2010, a 2-year-old, previously healthy boy was referred to our hospital with acute left-sided hemiparesis. His parents reported no preceding illness, except chickenpox 10 months earlier. On neurological examination he had left upper motor neuron facial palsy and left-sided weakness of the arm and leg with hyper-reflexia and a positive Babinski sign. At admission, diffusion-weighted brain MRI images showed signs of recent cerebral ischaemia in the right middle cerebral artery territory (). (Source: LANCET)

Well Blog: The Minimal Risks of Vaccines

NYT Health — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 18:29:39 +0100

Chickenpox vaccine carries some potential for side effects that can crop up years after the shot is administered, but the same problems are far more likely in patients who are infected naturally. (Source: NYT Health)

Vaccine Cleared Again as Autism Culprit

NYT Health — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 22:42:26 +0100

A report by the Institute of Medicine found that the chickenpox vaccine can cause illness many years later, but that there is no evidence that the vaccine against measles, mumps and rubella causes autism. (Source: NYT Health)

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Health Tip: Using an Antiviral for Chickenpox

The Doctors Lounge - Infections — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0100

Who may need the treatment (Source: The Doctors Lounge - Infections)

Herpes ans Zoster Keratitis

Acta Ophthalmologica — Sat, 13 Aug 2011 09:23:27 +0100

AbstractHerpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella‐zoster virus (VZV) are two leading causes of corneal infection with potential severely impaired visual acuity. These two viruses share multiple characteristics, including the ability to become latent in the trigeminal ganglia, before reactivation and migration along the trigeminal fibers innervating the cornea. The clinical settings of keratitis may vary from an epithelial defect (dendritic of geographic) to a more severe disease involving the stroma and/or the endothelium. Classically, HSV keratitis occurs from the second decade of life, and associated skin disease is not frequent and only involves the eyelids. In contrast, VZV keratitis mostly occurs after the sixth decade, as an associated finding of herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO). Ho...

Vaccine drastically reduces deaths from chickenpox

Drug Topics - Top News — Sun, 31 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100

The significant decrease in the death rate from the varicella virus, or chickenpox, can be attributed to the effectiveness of the chickenpox vaccine, according to a new study in a recent issue of Pediatrics. (Source: Drug Topics - Top News)

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Comparison of two strategies to prevent varicella outbreaks in housing facilities for asylum seekers

International Journal of Infectious Diseases — Fri, 29 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Of the two analyzed interventions to prevent varicella outbreaks in housing facilities for asylum seekers, the general vaccination strategy was more effective, more sustainable, and ethically preferable, although more costly. (Source: International Journal of Infectious Diseases)

Sharp Drop in Varicella-Related Deaths Due to VaccineSharp Drop in Varicella-Related Deaths Due to Vaccine

Medscape Today Headlines — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 16:26:34 +0100

A study shows that deaths from chickenpox have dropped 88% since the vaccine program began in U.S. WebMD Health News (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

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Chickenpox Vaccine May Wipe Out Related Deaths: Study

RWJF News Digest - Public Health — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:09:21 +0100

The varicella vaccine has nearly wiped out deaths from chickenpox in the United States, a new study shows. (Source: RWJF News Digest - Public Health)

Chickenpox vaccine saving lives

Health News - UPI.com — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 04:25:55 +0100

ATLANTA, July 26 (UPI) -- Children dying of chickenpox has almost been eliminated since the introduction of a vaccine in 1995, U.S. researchers say. (Source: Health News - UPI.com)

Sharp Drop in Chickenpox Deaths Due to Vaccine

WebMD Health — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 20:00:56 +0100

Chickenpox deaths in the U.S. have been nearly eliminated thanks to widespread use of the varicella vaccine, according to a new CDC study. (Source: WebMD Health)

Chickenpox no longer a deadly disease? What CDC vaccine study says

Health News: CBSNews.com — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 18:19:22 +0100

Before vaccine about 105 Americans died from virus annually - 12 years later, annual death toll dropped to 14 (Source: Health News: CBSNews.com)

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Chicken Pox Eradicated? Varicella Vaccine Proven To Do The Job

Health News from Medical News Today — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 17:00:00 +0100

Varicella vaccine has been in the market since 1995 and new studies show that it has nearly wiped out deaths from chickenpox in the United States. With only two diseases officially fully eradicated in the world, this is good news and signs of progress in the bio tech community. Deaths from chickenpox have diminished by 88% in all age groups and by 97% in young people 20 and under, according to the study from the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases. Chickenpox led to about 105 deaths a year during the pre-vaccine years of 1990 to 1994... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Chickenpox Vaccine May Wipe Out Related Deaths: Study

The Doctors Lounge - Infections — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 14:00:00 +0100

U.S. mortality rate dropped from about 105 to just 14 in 2007, research shows (Source: The Doctors Lounge - Infections)

Chickenpox Vaccine May Wipe out Related Deaths

MedlinePlus Health News — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 13:00:00 +0100

U.S. mortality rate dropped from about 105 to just 14 in 2007, research shows Source: HealthDay Related MedlinePlus Pages: Chickenpox, Immunization (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)

Vaccine credited with big cut in U.S. chickenpox deaths

CTV Health — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 11:04:30 +0100

Chickenpox vaccine has dramatically cut deaths from the disease, especially in children, says a new U.S. government study proclaiming an important public health victory. (Source: CTV Health)

Sharp drop in U.S. chickenpox deaths with vaccine

Reuters: Health — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 08:03:16 +0100

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Deaths from chickenpox, although rare, have dipped steeply after the U.S. began vaccinating against the virus in 1995, a new government report concludes. (Source: Reuters: Health)

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Chickenpox Vaccine May Wipe Out Related Deaths: Study

MedicineNet Skin General — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Chickenpox Vaccine May Wipe Out Related Deaths: StudyCategory: Health NewsCreated: 7/25/2011 10:05:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 7/25/2011 (Source: MedicineNet Skin General)

Sharp Drop in Chickepox Deaths Due to Vaccine

WebMD Health — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Chickenpox deaths in the U.S. have been nearly eliminated thanks to widespread use of the varicella vaccine, according to a new CDC study. (Source: WebMD Health)

Sharp Drop in Chickenpox Deaths Due to Vaccine

WebMD Health — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Chickenpox deaths in the U.S. have been nearly eliminated thanks to widespread use of the varicella vaccine, according to a new CDC study. (Source: WebMD Health)

Vaccine has nearly eliminated chickenpox deaths in children

USATODAY.com Health — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 04:01:00 +0100

High rates of immunization has helped boost "herd immunity," protecting the youngest of infants. (Source: USATODAY.com Health)

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Sharp drop in U.S. chickenpox deaths with vaccine

Modern Medicine — Sun, 24 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Deaths from chickenpox, although rare, dropped sharply after the U.S. began vaccinating against the virus in 1995, a new government report concludes. (Source: Modern Medicine)

Varicella myopericarditis mimicking myocardial infarction in a 17-year-old boy.

Texas Heart Institute Journal — Tue, 12 Jul 2011 21:00:03 +0100

Authors: De A, Myridakis D, Kerrigan M, Kiblawi F Varicella (chickenpox), a common childhood infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, is self-limiting and usually benign. Although atypical manifestations of the virus are occasionally seen, it rarely presents with cardiovascular sequelae. Cardiovascular complications of varicella can include pericarditis, myocarditis, or endocarditis. Herein, we report the case of a 17-year-old boy who had varicella infection and severe chest pain. Examination revealed atypical electrocardiographic findings of pericarditis and remarkably elevated cardiac biomarker levels: peak cardiac troponin I, 37.2 ng/mL; total creatine kinase, 1,209 U/L; and creatine kinase-MB fraction, 133.6 ng/mL. After results of coronary angiography reliably excluded isch...

Unusually severe varicella zoster (VZV) virus viral (aseptic) meningitis in an unimmunized, immunocompetent host with chickenpox

Heart and Lung — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100

We present the case of a healthy unimmunized adult who was hospitalized with chickenpox complicated by VZV aseptic meningitis with an unusually severe headache and nuchal rigidity that occurred during hospitalization. (Source: Heart and Lung)

Social epidemiology of a large outbreak of chickenpox in the Colombian sugar cane producer region: a set theory-based analysis.

Cadernos de Saude Publica — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100

This study describes the context of a large outbreak of chickenpox in the Cauca Valley region, Colombia (2003 to 2007), with an emphasis on macro-determinants. We explored the temporal trends in chickenpox incidence in 42 municipalities to identify the places with higher occurrences. We analyzed municipal characteristics (education quality, vaccination coverage, performance of health care services, violence-related immigration, and area size of planted sugar cane) through analyses based on set theory. Edwards-Venn diagrams were used to present the main findings. The results indicated that three municipalities had higher incidences and that poor quality education was the attribute most prone to a higher incidence. Potential use of set theory for exploratory outbreak analyses is discussed. I...

Hong Kong Strain of Scarlet Fever Unlikely to Spread to U.S., Experts Say

The Doctors Lounge - Infections — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 17:00:00 +0100

But they advise keeping an eye on outbreaks of chickenpox, which may result from the illness (Source: The Doctors Lounge - Infections)

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Emerging drugs for varicella-zoster virus infections.

Herpes — Thu, 23 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Andrei G, Snoeck R Introduction: Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) is the etiological agent of two distinct diseases, varicella (chickenpox) and shingles (herpes zoster). Chickenpox occurs following primary infection, while herpes zoster (usually associated with ageing and immunosuppression) is the consequence of reactivation of the latent virus. Post-herpetic neuralgia is the major complication of shingles. Areas covered: This review will discuss vaccination strategies and the current status of antivirals against VZV. A live attenuated vaccine, Varivax, is available for pediatric varicella while Zostavax was developed to boost VZV-specific cell-mediated immunity in adults older than 60 years and, via this mechanism, to decrease the burden of herpes zoster and pain associated with ...

Multiple sclerosis linked to shingles

Reuters: Health — Thu, 16 Jun 2011 20:18:19 +0100

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - People who get shingles are more likely to also develop multiple sclerosis, according to a study in Taiwan. Researchers found that people who developed shingles had four times the risk of being diagnosed with MS within the following year, relative to people who had never experienced shingles. Shingles is a painful condition caused by a reactivation of the virus that causes chickenpox, known as varicella-zoster virus. Once a person has had chickenpox, the virus goes in (Source: Reuters: Health)

Celebrities Can Give Positive Health Behaviors a Shot in the Arm, Really!

Psychology Today Anxiety Center — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 18:46:49 +0100

For getting the shingles vaccination, fear is a strong motivator.read more (Source: Psychology Today Anxiety Center)

Congenital varicella syndrome in a very low birthweight preterm infant

Archives of Disease in Childhood - Fetal and Neonatal Edition — Sat, 11 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Congenital varicella syndrome (CVS) is a rare but deleterious consequence of primary varicella zoster virus (VZV) infection during pregnancy. Typical CVS stigmata are cerebral abnormalities, eye diseases and segmentally distributed, cicatricial skin lesions. In this paper the authors report on a male preterm infant, born at 30 weeks of gestation, who developed pustular skin lesions at the age of 4 weeks. The mother had suffered from chickenpox at 14 weeks of gestation. Apart from skin manifestations, critical bronchopulmonary dysplasia made the infant conspicuous. The VZV genome was detected in blood, respiratory secretions and skin lesions. At age 10 weeks he presented with extensive intestinal wall perforation, considered to be related to CVS, which finally led to death. This case shows ...

Idiopathic CD4+ T lymphopenia without autoimmunity or granulomatous disease in the slipstream of RAG mutations

Blood — Wed, 01 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100

This report gives the first genetic clue for ICL and extends the clinical spectrum of RAG mutations from severe immune defects to an almost normal condition. (Source: Blood)

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Is it shingles? 7 myths about painful illness (graphic images)

Health News: CBSNews.com — Wed, 18 May 2011 16:05:50 +0100

Though it's caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox, shingles can be a much bigger deal (Source: Health News: CBSNews.com)

Varicella‐zoster virus (chickenpox) infection in pregnancy

BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology — Tue, 17 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Please cite this paper as: Lamont R, Sobel J, Carrington D, Mazaki‐Tovi S, Kusanovic J, Vaisbuch E, Romero R. Varicella‐zoster virus (chickenpox) infection in pregnancy. BJOG 2011; DOI: 10.1111/j.1471‐0528.2011.02983.x.Congenital varicella syndrome, maternal varicella‐zoster virus pneumonia and neonatal varicella infection are associated with serious fetomaternal morbidity and, not infrequently, mortality. Vaccination against varicella‐zoster virus can prevent the disease, and outbreak control limits the exposure of pregnant women to the infectious agent. Maternal varicella‐zoster immunoglobulin administration before rash development, with or without antiviral medication, can modify the progression of the disease. (Source: BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaec...

Drug Shortages Hit Calif.

Drugs.com - Pharma News — Wed, 27 Apr 2011 15:27:31 +0100

Shortage [Daily Press, Victorville, Calif.] From Daily Press (Victorville, CA) (April 27, 2011) April 27--Like losing that first tooth or learning to ride a bike, chickenpox is a right of passage for many children. But when those dreaded red bumps... (Source: Drugs.com - Pharma News)

Ultra-violet radiation is responsible for the differences in global epidemiology of chickenpox and the evolution of varicella-zoster virus as man migrated out of Africa

Virology Journal — Fri, 22 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Background: Of the eight human herpes viruses, varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox and zoster, has a unique epidemiology. Primary infection is much less common in children in the tropics compared with temperate areas. This results in increased adult susceptibility causing outbreaks, for example in health-care workers migrating from tropical to temperate countries. The recent demonstration that there are different genotypes of varicella-zoster virus and their geographic segregation into tropical and temperate areas suggests a distinct, yet previously unconsidered climatic factor may be responsible for both the clinical and molecular epidemiological features of this virus infection.Presentation of the hypothesisUnlike other human herpes viruses, varicella-zoster virus does not re...

New Hope For Treatment Of Painful Adult Shingles Offered By UGA Compound

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 22 Apr 2011 08:00:00 +0100

Researchers at the University of Georgia and Yale University have discovered a compound with the potential to be more effective than existing agents in treating the very painful blisters known as shingles - a condition that affects up to 30 percent of Americans, mostly elderly, and for which no specific treatment exists. Most adults remember the fever, itchy blisters and possibly tiny scars they experienced as children when they had chickenpox, which is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, or VZV.Unfortunately, that memory can come back - with a vengeance - when they are older... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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The Link Between Chickenpox and Shingles

WebMD Health — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 05:00:00 +0100

If you've ever had chickenpox, you're at risk of developing shingles later in life. Learn how chickenpox and shingles are related. (Source: WebMD Health)

Fractional lasers in dermatology - Current status and recommendations

Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Apratim Goel, DS Krupashankar, Sanjeev Aurangabadkar, KC Nischal, HM Omprakash, Venkataram MysoreIndian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology 2011 77(3):369-379Introduction: Fractional laser technology is a new emerging technology to improve scars, fine lines, dyspigmentation, striae and wrinkles. The technique is easy, safe to use and has been used effectively for several clinical and cosmetic indications in Indian skin. Devices: Different fractional laser machines, with different wavelengths, both ablative and non-ablative, are now available in India. A detailed understanding of the device being used is recommended. Indications: Common indications include resurfacing for acne, chickenpox and surgical scars, periorbital and perioral wrinkles, photoageing changes, facial dy...

50 Years Ago in The Journal of Pediatrics: Chickenpox and Leukemia

The Journal of Pediatrics — Tue, 12 Apr 2011 21:54:48 +0100

Pinkel DP. J Pediatr 1961;58:729-37. In 1961, Pinkel described 4 cases of chickenpox complicating the therapy of children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Two of the reported patients died of the varicella zoster virus (VZV) infection. Pinkel correctly hypothesized that the immunosuppression caused by leukemia and its therapy resulted in the severe VZV infection. He also recognized that intravenous immunoglobulin dampened the severity of the varicella infection. (Source: The Journal of Pediatrics)

Chickenpox

Clinical Evidence — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100

New option(s) added for: Live attenuated varicella vaccine for prevention in healthy children exposed to varicella zoster virus New option. Categorised as Likely to be beneficial. Live attenuated varicella vaccine for prevention in healthy adults exposed to varicella zoster virus New option. Categorised as Unknown effectiveness. Live attenuated varicella vaccine for prevention in immunocompromised children New option. Categorised as Trade-off between benefits and harms by consensus. (Source: Clinical Evidence)

Expanded approval for shingles vaccine

Health Facts and Fears — Sun, 27 Mar 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Varicella zoster virus (VZV), the pathogen that causes chickenpox when first encountered in early childhood, can reawaken decades later and cause the painful skin eruption known as shingles. (Source: Health Facts and Fears)

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Merck's Shingles Vaccine Zostavax FDA Approved For Younger Patients

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 17:00:00 +0100

Merck's Zostavax, a drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to assist in the prevention of shingles for people over 60, has now been approved for those born later and can now be prescribed to persons 50 years of age and older. Shingles is characterized by a rash of blisters, which generally develop in a band on one side of the body and can cause severe pain that may last for weeks, and in some people, for months or years after the episode. After you get chickenpox, the virus remains inactive (becomes dormant) in certain nerves in the body... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

FDA Approves Zostavax Vaccine To Prevent Shingles In Individuals 50 To 59 Years Of Age

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 09:00:00 +0100

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) today approved the use of Zostavax, a live attenuated virus vaccine, for the prevention of shingles in individuals 50 to 59 years of age. Zostavax is already approved for use in individuals 60 years of age and older. In the United States shingles affects approximately 200,000 healthy people between the ages of 50 and 59, per year. It is a disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is a virus in the herpes family and the same virus that causes chickenpox. After an attack of chickenpox, the virus lies dormant in certain nerves in the body... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Current management of herpes skin infections in general practice

Prescriber — Sat, 19 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100

AbstractHerpes viruses are a common cause of viral skin infection ranging from chickenpox in children to shingles in older patients. Our Drug review discusses current management of herpes simplex and varicella‐zoster infections, followed by a review of prescription data and sources of further information. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Interface Ltd (Source: Prescriber)

Medicolegal aspects of the mismanagement of patients with herpesvirus infections

Clinical Risk — Wed, 09 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100

As more antiviral drugs become available for treating virus infections, the correct choice of drug and prompt diagnosis and treatment are becoming increasingly important. The most frequent legal negligence cases arise from delays in clinical or laboratory diagnosis of herpesvirus infections and delays in initiating the correct antiviral drug treatment. Herpes simplex virus encephalitis in all groups of patients and herpes simplex virus and varicellazoster virus (chickenpox and shingles) infections in immunocompropmised patients give rise to most complaints because of their severe consequences for patients. (Source: Clinical Risk)

A case of intracranial saccular aneurysm after primary varicella zoster virus infection

Brain and Development — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 05:00:00 +0100

We report a case of intracranial saccular aneurysm that developed 3years after post-varicella ischemic stroke. A 6-year-old girl without apparent immunologic defects presented with right hemiparesis and expressive aphasia 1month after chickenpox. Her magnetic resonance imaging scans revealed left basal ganglia infarction because of left lenticulostriate artery occlusion. Although her neurologic symptoms improved gradually, segmental irregular narrowing remained in the A1 and M1 segments of the left anterior and middle cerebral arteries, respectively. Three years later, the follow-up magnetic resonance angiography indicated saccular aneurysm in the anterior communicating artery and the anti-VZV IgG antibody index in the cerebrospinal fluid was elevated. Subclinical reactivation of VZV and t...

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Review: The neurobiology of varicella zoster virus infection

Neuropathology and Applied Neurobiology — Wed, 23 Feb 2011 18:20:08 +0100

AbstractVaricella zoster virus (VZV) is a neurotropic herpesvirus that infects nearly all humans. Primary infection usually causes chickenpox (varicella), after which virus becomes latent in cranial nerve ganglia, dorsal root ganglia and autonomic ganglia along the entire neuraxis. Although VZV cannot be isolated from human ganglia, nucleic acid hybridization and, later, polymerase chain reaction proved that VZV is latent in ganglia. Declining VZV‐specific host immunity decades after primary infection allows virus to reactivate spontaneously, resulting in shingles (zoster) characterized by pain and rash restricted to 1‐3 dermatomes. Multiple other serious neurological and ocular disorders also result from VZV reactivation. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge of the cl...

Varicella Reinfection in a Seropositive Physician Following Occupational Exposure to Localized Zoster.

Herpes — Thu, 27 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Johnson JA, Bloch KC, Dang BN A 32-year-old physician with a history of chickenpox at age 5 and seropositivity to varicella-zoster virus (VZV) at age 30 developed fever and vesicular rash 14 days after examining an immunocompetent patient with localized herpes zoster ophthalmicus. Vesicular viral culture grew VZV, and the physician was diagnosed with VZV reinfection. PMID: 21273297 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Herpes)

Varicella vaccine much more effective with 2 doses

American Medical News — Fri, 21 Jan 2011 14:18:48 +0100

Children who receive a second dose are 95% less likely to develop chickenpox than those who get only one, a new study says. (Source: American Medical News)

Two Doses of Chickenpox Vaccine Beat One: Study

Medscape Infectious Diseases Headlines — Fri, 14 Jan 2011 20:59:12 +0100

Kids are less likely to get chickenpox if they get two doses of the chickenpox vaccine instead of just one, suggests a new study. Reuters Health Information (Source: Medscape Infectious Diseases Headlines)

Chickenpox cases down with second vaccine dose

Reuters: Health — Thu, 13 Jan 2011 21:25:52 +0100

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Since health officials began recommending a second dose of the vaccine against chickenpox, cases of the infection among Connecticut children have further declined, a new study finds. (Source: Reuters: Health)

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Two doses of chickenpox vaccine beat one: study

Reuters: Health — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 18:17:04 +0100

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) -- Kids are less likely to get chickenpox if they get two doses of the chickenpox vaccine instead of just one, suggests a new study. (Source: Reuters: Health)

Two Doses of Chickenpox Vaccine Beat One

MedlinePlus Health News — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 18:17:04 +0100

Kids are less likely to get chickenpox if they get two doses of the chickenpox vaccine instead of just one, suggests a new study.Source: Reuters Health Related MedlinePlus Pages: Chickenpox, Childhood Immunization (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)

Herpes zoster vaccine effective in reducing shingles in older people

NeLM - News — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100

This study used data from a large US healthcare organisation (Kaiser Permanente, Southern California, KPSC) to identify outcomes in a cohort of people who had received the vaccine. The vaccinated cohort consisted of members who received herpes zoster vaccine at age 60 years or older, between January 2007 and June 2009 inclusive; the date of vaccination was termed the index date. The unvaccinated cohort consisted of randomly sampled members who were matched 3:1 to the vaccinated cohort based on birth date (±1 year). Immunocompromised individuals were excluded as the vaccine is not ... (Source: NeLM - News)

Trust Us: if you’re over 60, get your shingles vaccine

Health Facts and Fears — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Shingles is an often painful and blistering skin rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus — the same virus responsible for chickenpox — and is most common in people over 50. (Source: Health Facts and Fears)

Two Doses of Chicken Pox Vaccine Very Effective, Say Yale Researchers

RWJF News Digest - Public Health — Fri, 07 Jan 2011 15:39:15 +0100

A new Yale University study confirms that two doses of the chickenpox vaccine do a significantly better job at preventing the illness than one dose. According to a study to appear in the Feb. 1 issue of the Journal of Infectious Diseases, a second dose of the vaccine lessens the risk of getting chickenpox by 95 percent. (Source: RWJF News Digest - Public Health)

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Double Dose of Chickenpox Vaccine is Best

Medical Headlines From Ivanhoe.com — Fri, 07 Jan 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Ivanhoe Newswire) -- Two doses of the chickenpox vaccine provide excellent protection in children against the highly-contagious itchy disease, according to a new study. (Source: Medical Headlines From Ivanhoe.com)

Varicella Vaccine: Two Shots of Chickenpox Vaccine Better Than One

Health News: CBSNews.com — Wed, 05 Jan 2011 15:36:34 +0100

Study: Two Dose Regiment is 98 Percent Effective (Source: Health News: CBSNews.com)

Chickenpox Vaccine Cuts Hospitalization Rates: Study

The Doctors Lounge - Infections — Wed, 05 Jan 2011 15:00:00 +0100

Immunization program reduces illness and disease-related costs, researchers say (Source: The Doctors Lounge - Infections)

Chickenpox Vaccine Cuts Hospitalization Rates: Study

MedicineNet Skin General — Wed, 05 Jan 2011 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Chickenpox Vaccine Cuts Hospitalization Rates: StudyCategory: Health NewsCreated: 1/5/2011 12:05:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 1/5/2011 (Source: MedicineNet Skin General)

Study confirms 2 vaccine doses protect children from chickenpox

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Wed, 05 Jan 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Infectious Diseases Society of America) Two doses of the varicella, or chickenpox, vaccine provide excellent protection in children against this highly contagious and, in some cases, severe disease. To be published in the Feb. 1 issue of the Journal of Infectious Diseases, the findings support the two-dose vaccine regimen recommended in the United States since 2006. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

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Vaccines to the rescue for chickenpox and pertussis

Health Facts and Fears — Tue, 04 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Since routine chickenpox vaccinations were implemented in 1995, yearly rates of chickenpox infections in the U.S.decreased by 80 to 90 percent while the proportion of Americans hospitalized due to the infection has fallen by over two-thirds, a new study by the CDC finds. (Source: Health Facts and Fears)

Chickenpox Vaccine Drastically Cuts Hospitalizations

WebMD Health — Mon, 03 Jan 2011 18:47:40 +0100

The chickenpox vaccine prevented more than 50,000 hospitalizations from 2000 to 2006, according to new data published in the February issue of Pediatrics. (Source: WebMD Health)

Since Vaccine, Fewer Hospitalized for Chickenpox

MedlinePlus Health News — Mon, 03 Jan 2011 18:24:55 +0100

Since the U.S. began routine chickenpox vaccination in 1995, the number of Americans sent to hospitals by the infection each year has dropped by more than two-thirds, government researchers reported Monday. Source: Reuters Health Related MedlinePlus Pages: Chickenpox, Childhood Immunization, Health Statistics (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)

Since vaccine, fewer hospitalized for chickenpox

Reuters: Health — Mon, 03 Jan 2011 18:24:55 +0100

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Since the U.S. began routine chickenpox vaccination in 1995, the number of Americans sent to hospitals by the infection each year has dropped by more than two-thirds, government researchers reported Monday. (Source: Reuters: Health)

Hip pain as initial presentation for varicella-zoster infection in an adolescent male.

Pain Physician — Sat, 01 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100

This article presents a case of herpes zoster infection with initial presentation of hip pain in a 13-year-old boy. This case highlights the difficulty in diagnosing atraumatic joint pain in the pediatric population. The clinical importance of a thoughtful differential diagnosis, and the necessity of close follow-up by a pediatrician and/or orthopedic surgeon until there is a confirmed diagnosis cannot be overstated. PMID: 21210614 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Pain Physician)

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Evaluation of the time resolved fluorescence immunoassay (TRFIA) for the detection of varicella zoster virus (VZV) antibodies following vaccination of healthcare workers.

Journal of Virological Methods — Tue, 28 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: McDonald SL, Maple PA, Andrews N, Ayres KL, Scott FT, Al Bassam M, Gershon AA, Steinberg SP, Breuer J Determination of varicella zoster virus (VZV) immunity in healthcare workers without a history of chickenpox is important for identifying those in need of vOka vaccination. Post immunisation, healthcare workers in the UK who work with high risk patients are tested for seroconversion. To assess the performance of the time-resolved fluorescence immunoassay (TRFIA) for the detection of antibody in vaccinated as well as unvaccinated individuals, a cut-off was first calculated. VZV-IgG specific avidity and titres six weeks after the first dose of vaccine were used to identify subjects with pre-existing immunity among a cohort of 110 healthcare workers. Those with high avidity (≥6...

Chickenpox (Varicella)

MedicineNet Skin General — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Chickenpox (Varicella)Category: Diseases and ConditionsCreated: 12/31/1997Last Editorial Review: 12/21/2010 (Source: MedicineNet Skin General)

Health Tip: Recognizing Symptoms of Shingles

The Doctors Lounge - Infections — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 13:00:00 +0100

Caused by the once-dormant chickenpox virus (Source: The Doctors Lounge - Infections)

Use of aciclovir in pregnancy

NeLM - Drugs in Pregnancy — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Source: UK Teratology Information Service Area: Evidence > Drugs in Pregnancy SUMMARY: Aciclovir is an antiviral agent used systemically for the treatment of herpes simplex and varicella-zoster infections and is also used topically for herpes simplex infections of the skin, mucous membranes and eye. Overall, the data do not show an increased risk for congenital malformations or other fetal toxicity from exposure to either systemic or topical aciclovir at any time in pregnancy. Aciclovir should be considered for all women presenting with a first episode of genital herpes during pregnancy, but daily use in the last 4 weeks of pregnancy to reduce the risk of recurrence is not routinely recommended. Aciclovir is also recommended for the treatment of chickenp...

Health Tip: Chickenpox Can Be Dangerous During Pregnancy

The Doctors Lounge - Health News — Fri, 10 Dec 2010 13:00:00 +0100

What women need to know (Source: The Doctors Lounge - Health News)

Facial herpes zoster complicated by varicella zoster virus (VZV) encephalitis: The diagnostic significance of atypical lymphocytes in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)

Heart and Lung — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: CSF atypical lymphocytes, if present, are an important diagnostic clue in some causes of viral encephalitis. The most common cause of nonseasonal viral encephalitis is herpes simplex virus, which is not associated with CSF atypical lymphocytes. Patients with Epstein–Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, West Nile encephalitis, and enteroviruses usually have extra-CNS signs and symptoms which should suggest the cause of the patient’s encephalitis. CSF atypical lymphocytes limit the differential diagnostic possibilities in patients with viral encephalitis and may be the key clue to the diagnosis, as in the case presented. (Source: Heart and Lung)

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Giant cell hepatitis and autoimmune hemolytic anemia after chickenpox.

The Turkish Journal of Gastroenterology — Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100

We report a case with autoimmune hemolytic anemia+giant cell hepatitis after varicella infection. She was resistant to standard immunosuppressive combinations, and rescue therapy with rituximab was used. Remission was not achieved with the drug and the child died with septic complication. PMID: 21332002 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The Turkish Journal of Gastroenterology)

Fulminant hepatitis and death associated with disseminated varicella in an immunocompromised adult from the Czech Republic caused by a wild-type clade 4 varicella-zoster virus strain

Journal of Clinical Virology — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Abstract: Varicella zoster virus typically causes a benign disease in childhood called varicella (chickenpox) and can reactivate in adults as a dermatomally distributed, painful rash illness known as herpes zoster (HZ). Infection with VZV can however lead to severe complications in immunocompromised patients that can result in hospitalization and, occasionally, death. Here we describe a patient, who acquired primary VZV infection during a 3-week-long treatment regimen with corticosteroids. The disease took a fulminant course, leading to a liver failure and severe coagulopathy. The patient died 9 days following hospital admission, despite intensive antiviral and supportive treatment. Wild-type VZV DNA was detected from multiple samples from esophagus, liver and skin. Genotypic analysis base...

New clue to fighting viruses

NHS News Feed — Tue, 02 Nov 2010 17:40:00 +0100

Conclusion This study reports an interesting development in understanding of the role that antibodies play in helping the body to fight viral infections. When considering the likelihood of this leading to a ‘cure for the common cold’, it should be noted that: This was a laboratory study undertaken in cells. A cure for or treatment of any viral disease will require a lot more research into drug development, safety assessment and clinical trials in animal and then human populations. This process would be lengthy and may not necessarily prove successful. The researchers did not actually use the virus that causes the ‘common cold’ (rhinovirus) in this study, but rather one that can cause other respiratory illnesses (adenovirus) often with similar symptoms. Viruses can vary in ...

New vulnerability identified in viruses

Guardian Unlimited Science — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 19:29:35 +0100

The immune system has been found to target viruses inside cells, suggesting new strategies against infections including the common cold and winter vomiting bugThey are mankind's greatest killer and rank among the hardest to treat of all diseases, claiming twice as many lives as cancer. But a discovery could give doctors a new weapon in the battle against viruses, including those that cause widespread illnesses such as the common cold and gastroenteritis.In a report published today, scientists revealed a previously unknown way that the immune system attacks infections, a finding that offers a new approach to treating diseases caused by viruses."Doctors have plenty of antibiotics to fight bacterial infections but few antiviral drugs. Although these are early days, and we don't yet know wheth...

Seroprevalence of varicella-zoster virus in Korea.

Herpes — Fri, 29 Oct 2010 20:40:14 +0100

Authors: Choi WS, Noh JY, Huh JY, Jo YM, Lee J, Song JY, Kim WJ, Cheong HJ Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) causes chickenpox and herpes zoster. Korea is assumed to have a high seroprevalence of VZV, although data are scant. A cross-sectional and age-stratified study was conducted to investigate the seroprevalence of VZV in different ages in the South Korean population. Four medical institutions were chosen in the southwestern area of Seoul in the vicinity of Gyeonggi-do. Serum samples were obtained at each institution from consenting patients during April-August, 2008. Anti-VZV IgG antibody was measured by an enzyme immunoassay. Of the 887 patients, 87.6% had anti-VZV IgG antibody. The prevalence of anti-VZV IgG antibody was 75% during the first 3 months after birth, but was only 13.6% 12...

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Unimmunized Kids Less Likely to Get Chickenpox if Vaccinated After Exposure

Health Behavior News Service — Sun, 24 Oct 2010 06:00:18 +0100

07/15/08, Cochrane Library (Source: Health Behavior News Service)

Dr Rosemary Leonard: Am I immune from catching chickenpox?

Daily Express - Health — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 23:00:00 +0100

Q I had a very mild bout of chickenpox as a child. Does this mean I am immune from catching it as an adult or is it possible to get it again from my daughter? (Source: Daily Express - Health)

TNF Blockers Tied to Hospitalization for Zoster

Rheumatology News — Fri, 01 Oct 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Major Finding: The estimated incidence rate of hospitalization for shingles in the rheumatic population was 32 cases per 100,000 patient-years, compared with an expected rate of 3.4 in the general population. The estimated incidence of hospitalization for chickenpox in the rheumatic patients was 26 per 100,000, compared with 1.9 in the general population. The absolute incidence of varicella-related hospitalizations remains low, at about 3 cases per 10,000 person-years of exposure. (Source: Rheumatology News)

Stroke After Varicella-zoster Infection: Report of a Case and Review of the Literature

Medscape Infectious Diseases Headlines — Wed, 29 Sep 2010 14:32:25 +0100

Recognition of stroke as significant complication of chickenpox may add weight to the arguments for immunizing children against varicella-zoster virus. The Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal® (Source: Medscape Infectious Diseases Headlines)

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The American Pain Foundation Proclaims Second Annual Postherpetic Neuralgia Awareness Day

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 22 Sep 2010 13:00:00 +0100

The American Pain Foundation (APF), in partnership with professional baseball player LaTroy Hawkins, acknowledges those suffering from Postherpetic Neuralgia (PHN), as it recognizes the second annual PHN Awareness Day. PHN Awareness Day was created to raise awareness to the pain caused by shingles and PHN, also known as after-shingles pain. Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the same virus that causes chickenpox and can affect an individual who has had chickenpox at anytime without warning... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

The epidemiology of chickenpox in UK 5-year olds: An analysis to inform vaccine policy.

Vaccine — Tue, 21 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100

We report the prevalence of VZV infection at 5 years of age, cumulative incidence between 3 and 5 years and socio-demographic associations with risk of infection using longitudinal data on 12,509 children from the UK Millennium Cohort Study. VZV prevalence by 5 years was 76.9% [95% CI: 75.9%, 78.0%]. The cumulative incidence between 3 and 5 years was 32.2% [95% CI: 31.1%, 33.3%]. Risk of infection by 5 years was associated with higher maternal socio-economic status, larger household size and formal day-care attendance at 9 months and 3 years. If universal varicella immunisation were introduced in the UK, where 40% children have attended some formal day-care by 3 years, a schedule commencing early in the second year of life would be indicated. PMID: 20869468 [PubMed - as supplied by pub...

Incidence and risk of hospitalisation due to shingles and chickenpox in patients with rheumatic diseases treated with TNF antagonists

Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases — Tue, 21 Sep 2010 15:18:57 +0100

Conclusions Patients suffering rheumatic diseases exposed to TNF antagonists are hospitalised due to VZV infections significantly more frequently than expected in the general population. Since the absolute IR of hospitalisations due to chickenpox and shingles is low in these patients, the implementation of risky preventive measures may not be justified at present. (Source: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases)

Chickenpox: You can ease the symptoms

MayoClinic.com Full Feed — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 05:00:00 +0100

Chickenpox — Comprehensive overview covers symptoms, treatment, prevention of this once common childhood illness. (Source: MayoClinic.com Full Feed)