Transmission of VZV

Q: Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) in hospitals can be transmitted via inanimate objects? (select one)

A) True
B) False


Answer: B

Few things are relatively less know about VZV infection. 

•  Humans are the only known hosts of VZV infection
• VZV is transmitted in humans by droplet and airborne routes
• VZV is very labile and unlikely to be transmitted by inanimate objects

Exposure to airflow from rooms occupied by patients with VZV is one of the major risk factors transmission.

#infectious-diseases


References:

1. Weber DJ, Rutala WA, Hamilton H. Prevention and control of varicella-zoster infections in healthcare facilities. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 1996; 17:694

2. Bloch KC, Johnson JG. Varicella zoster virus transmission in the vaccine era: unmasking the role of herpes zoster. J Infect Dis. 2012;205(9):1331-1333. doi:10.1093/infdis/jis214