Varicella-Zoster Virus Reactivation amid the COVID-19 pandemic- Do we need to be vigilant? A mini review

Abstract

Reactivation of varicella-zoster infection has been noted in a subset of COVID-19 patients. This has been attributed to immune dysregulation resulting from SARS-CoV-2 infection. Majority individuals presented with shingles, however, neurological complications such as meningoencephalitis and acute retinal necrosis were also reported. Diagnosis in most cases was made on clinical grounds, however, for complications such as meningoencephalitis, the standard investigative measures such as polymerase chain reaction tests (PCR) were conducted. Post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), a less common sequel of shingles, was witnessed despite the early administration of therapy. Most cases were resolved with antiviral therapy; however, in some instances, corticosteroids had to be administered.

Keywords

• herpes zoster
• COVID-19
• acyclovir
• ganciclovir