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A recent study conducted by Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine in Wuxi, China, analyzed the association between climatic factors and varicella incidence from 2010 to 2019. The study found that varicella outbreaks in Wuxi displayed a bimodal annual pattern, with several meteorological factors influencing varicella risk. Subgroup analyses revealed that different age groups and genders faced varying levels of varicella risk based on meteorological conditions. The research provides valuable insights for developing public health policies to reduce varicella risks in the region. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Yaroslavl State Medical University have reported findings on the nature of central nervous system lesions caused by Varicella Zoster virus infections. The study analyzed 47 patients treated at the Infectious Diseases Clinical Hospital of Yaroslavl, revealing that Varicella Zoster virus can lead to meningitis, meningoencephalitis, and encephalitis. The research highlighted the medical and social significance of these central nervous system disorders, with no reported deaths among the patients studied. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the Mayo Clinic reported a case of disseminated vaccine-strain varicella-zoster virus reactivation in a 16-year-old female with Hodgkin's lymphoma. The patient had received childhood immunization against varicella but developed the reactivated virus years later. The case underscores the importance of distinguishing between wild-type and vaccine-strain herpes zoster through viral genotyping and highlights potential complications in immunized individuals who later become immunosuppressed. The study emphasizes the need for providers to be aware of vaccine virus reactivation and consider appropriate management strategies. [Extracted from the article]

A Phase 3a clinical trial is being conducted to evaluate the safety of an investigational varicella vaccine (VNS Vaccine) compared to Varivax in healthy children aged 12 to 15 months who have not had varicella or received a varicella vaccination. The study aims to assess the tolerability of the investigational vaccine through various outcome measures related to adverse events. The trial is not yet recruiting participants and is expected to be completed by December 3, 2026. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Yokohama Municipal Citizen's Hospital in Japan reported a case of Varicella Zoster Virus Encephalitis in a 40-year-old Japanese man with advanced Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) disease. The patient presented with neurological symptoms, and further investigation revealed the presence of the virus in his brain tissue. Despite receiving antiretroviral therapy and antiviral treatment, the patient survived with neurological complications. The research highlights the rarity of VZV encephalitis in individuals with AIDS and emphasizes its poor prognosis. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital in China focused on analyzing the genotypes of the Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) in Jiangsu province to identify vaccine strains and wild strains. The research found that the prevalent VZV genotypes in Jiangsu are Clade 2, with the primary wild strain observed being mainly PstI (+), BglI (+), SmaI (-). The study provides valuable molecular biological background for the effective prevention and control of varicella in the region. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Leon have conducted a study on the immunogenicity of a new herpes zoster recombinant subunit vaccine in patients with immune-mediated rheumatic diseases (IMRDs) who are being treated with JAK inhibitors. The study found that patients with IMRDs treated with JAK inhibitors showed reduced immune responses compared to healthy controls, indicating a potential decrease in protection against herpes zoster infection and reactivation. This research provides valuable insights into the impact of the vaccine on adaptive humoral and cellular immune responses in this specific patient population. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Copenhagen University Hospital conducted a nationwide cohort study on Danish residents with positive cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) tests for herpes simplex virus (HSV) or varicella-zoster virus (VZV). They found that individuals with positive intrathecal antibody index tests for HSV or VZV had different characteristics and outcomes compared to those with positive PCR tests. The study concluded that the antibody index test may not be specific for current central nervous system infections. This research provides valuable insights into demyelinating diseases and conditions, contributing to the field of clinical microbiology and infection. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Grodno State Medical University have documented a case of generalized Varicella Zoster infection in a patient with lymphogranulomatosis after bone marrow transplantation. The study utilized molecular genetic methods to confirm the infection, which had a severe course with multiorgan involvement including encephalitis, myocarditis, and pneumonia. This case represents the first described instance of such an infection in the Republic of Belarus. The findings were published in the journal Žurnal infektologii and can be accessed for further information. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Cleveland Clinic Children's Hospital conducted a study on pediatric solid organ transplant candidates to assess incomplete immunity to varicella and measles. The study found that a significant percentage of candidates had incomplete immunity to these viruses, despite efforts to optimize immunity through additional vaccine doses. The research highlights the importance of timely vaccination for this vulnerable population, especially during periods of increased viral activity. Future research should focus on addressing strategies and understanding barriers to ensure adequate vaccination prior to transplantation. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the Beijing Center for Disease Prevention and Control in China evaluated the effectiveness of emergency varicella vaccination during an outbreak at an elementary school in Beijing in 2019. The study found that emergency vaccination with the first and second doses of the varicella vaccine significantly reduced the incidence rates of varicella, offering incremental vaccine effectiveness. The research highlights the importance of early initiation of emergency varicella vaccination to mitigate disease outbreaks in settings with incomplete vaccine coverage. For more information, the full article can be accessed for free at https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12101184. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by Merck & Company in France aimed to estimate the economic burden of varicella among children from family and societal perspectives. The research found that pediatric varicella resulted in significant healthcare resource use, missed school days, and workdays for caregivers. The annual societal burden of varicella in France was estimated to be approximately €450 million, with indirect costs accounting for 85% of the total burden. This study highlights the substantial economic impact of pediatric varicella in France, primarily due to productivity losses among parents and caregivers. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at Xi'an Children's Hospital in the People's Republic of China analyzed risk factors for varicella encephalitis in children and developed a predictive model. The research identified older age, vomiting, poor mental status, and prolonged rash duration as independent risk factors for varicella encephalitis. The predictive model combining these factors showed good predictive efficiency with a sensitivity of 94.7% and a specificity of 86.0%. Children with varicella who exhibit these risk factors should be closely monitored clinically. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital in Surabaya, Indonesia, focused on risk factors and complications in patients with herpes zoster virus. The study found that herpes zoster was more prevalent in females, with hypertension being the most common risk factor and post-herpetic neuralgia the most common complication. The research aimed to improve prevention strategies to reduce the prevalence of herpes zoster patients in the hospital. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by the Medical University of Bialystok in Poland analyzed the clinical manifestations and outcomes of Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV) reactivation in the central nervous system (CNS) in immunocompetent children. The study found that VZV, which can cause herpes zoster (HZ), can infrequently manifest as a neuroinfection. The research concluded that neither a history of VZV immunization nor the absence of a skin rash can definitively exclude VZV meningitis, and any seemingly healthy child could develop HZ meningitis. The study highlights the importance of recognizing and treating VZV reactivation in the CNS in children. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study published in Vaccine Weekly provides new insights into the structure and immunogenicity of the varicella zoster virus (VZV), which causes chickenpox and shingles. The study focused on the glycoprotein E (gE) of VZV, which is the primary target for anti-VZV antibodies. Using X-ray crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy, the researchers were able to determine the 3D structure of gE and identify its interactions with neutralizing antibodies. These findings contribute to our understanding of VZV and may inform the development of future herpesvirus vaccines. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the University of Thi-Qar have conducted a molecular study on the varicella zoster virus (VZV) in cerebrospinal fluid from stroke patients in the Thi-Qar province. VZV is an alpha-herpesvirus that targets the nervous system and causes chickenpox. The study aimed to determine the genetic sequence of local VZV strains and analyze their variability. The researchers found that all clinical strains had a genome length of 124,884 base pairs and identified two distinct mutations. The phylogenetic analysis revealed the presence of five primary clades, with four originating from India and one showing similarity to a strain from the United Kingdom. [Extracted from the article]

A report from the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment in the Netherlands discusses the increase in invasive group A streptococcal (iGAS) infections among adults and young children after COVID-19 control measures were lifted in 2022. The researchers aimed to estimate the proportion of iGAS infections attributable to viral infections such as varicella and respiratory viruses. They found that varicella was responsible for a significant proportion of GAS skin and soft tissue infections in children, while respiratory viruses, particularly influenza A, contributed to iGAS pneumonia/sepsis in both children and adults. The researchers suggest that public health measures such as vaccination against varicella and influenza could help reduce the burden of iGAS infections. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by the Wuxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention in China evaluated the effectiveness of the varicella vaccine in preventing the varicella infection in children. The study included 382,397 children born between 2012 and 2016. The researchers found that the incidence of breakthrough varicella cases decreased significantly with an increase in vaccination rate. The vaccine effectiveness was found to be 88.17%-95.78% for one dose and 98.65%-99.93% for two doses. The study supports the use of a two-dose varicella vaccination strategy for better protection against the disease in children. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Florence in Italy aimed to assess the seroprevalence of anti-varicella antibodies among adults in the province of Florence. The study found that 89.5% of the 430 tested samples were positive for anti-varicella antibodies, indicating previous exposure to the varicella virus. No significant differences were found based on sex or nationality. However, the study highlighted the risk of varicella infection during pregnancy and emphasized the need for targeted immunization strategies, particularly for women of childbearing age. The researchers concluded that while varicella vaccination has had a significant impact on public health in Italy, efforts should be made to reduce the number of susceptible individuals in adulthood through increased promotion of vaccination. [Extracted from the article]

A case report from Shengli Oilfield Central Hospital in Shandong, China, discusses a rare occurrence of peripheral facial palsy following meningitis caused by varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infection. The patient, a 54-year-old female, initially presented with headache and fever, and was later diagnosed with VZV-associated meningitis. Treatment with acyclovir, ceftriaxone, mannitol, and methylprednisolone was administered, but the patient developed right peripheral facial palsy 10 days after treatment. The case highlights the complex and varied clinical manifestations of VZV infection, emphasizing the importance of understanding disease progression and treatment. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for a combination of plasma immunoglobulin and antigen-specific immunoglobulin for the treatment or prevention of allergic diseases. Allergic diseases affect a significant portion of the human and pet populations, and current allergen immunotherapy can be burdensome. The invention aims to provide improved pharmaceutical compositions and methods for the treatment or prevention of allergic diseases. The patent includes claims for a pharmaceutical composition and a method of treating or preventing allergic diseases using the combination of immunoglobulins. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Antwerp in Belgium explored the immune response of human neural-like environments to varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infection. The researchers used matured hiPSC-derived neurospheroids (NSPHs) containing neurons and astrocytes to investigate the innate immune responses triggered by VZV infection. They found that while NSPHs displayed a strong immune response to Sendai virus (SeV) infection, they exhibited a suppressed immune response to VZV infection. Additionally, long-term VZV infection led to the formation of stress granules and disruption of cellular integrity within the infected NSPHs. This study highlights the immune evasive behavior of VZV in matured NSPHs. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Xiamen University in China has explored the development of a nanoparticle-based vaccine for the Varicella zoster virus (VZV), which is responsible for chickenpox and shingles. The current vaccines for VZV are effective but can cause varicella-like rashes and raise concerns about cell virulence. The researchers developed a safer alternative using nanoparticles displaying the glycoprotein E (gE) on ferritin particles. This nanoparticle antigen elicited strong immune responses in mice, including high levels of neutralizing antibodies and a Th1-biased immune response. The findings suggest that this nanoparticle-based vaccine could be a promising immunogen for the development of varicella and herpes zoster vaccines. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by Ajou University in Suwon, South Korea, aimed to identify the specific vaccine strain associated with herpes zoster (HZ) in children and explore whether differences in single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) among various vaccine strains are linked to an increased incidence of herpes zoster after vaccination. The study found that children who developed vaccine-related varicella-like rash or HZ were immunized with the Oka/SK strain varicella vaccine. Genotyping showed that most of the cases had SNPs specific to the Oka/SK strain, and two cases had SNPs considered pOka type contained within the Oka/SK vaccine. The study concluded that the lack of structural alterations in a specific protein due to the absence of critical genetic polymorphisms could be associated with the heightened incidence of adverse events. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on recent findings from Dokuz Eylul University Faculty of Medicine regarding humoral immunity in children treated for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Topics discussed include the significant decline in antibody levels against vaccine-preventable diseases post-chemotherapy, the need for routine serological testing and re-vaccination, and the varying seropositivity rates for different diseases among treated children.

A study conducted by the Ege University Faculty of Medicine in Izmir, Turkey, examined the impact of a single-dose varicella vaccine on varicella-related hospitalizations in children between 2008 and 2018. The study found that the introduction of the vaccine significantly decreased the rate of varicella hospitalizations, particularly in children aged 1 to 5 years. However, there was no observed herd protection in other age groups. The researchers suggest that implementing a second dose of the varicella vaccine in the National Immunization Program could further control the disease. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report discusses research conducted at Yeungnam University in South Korea on chickenpox. The researchers evaluated a flow cytometry-based fluorescent antibody to membrane antigen (FAMA) test for measuring immunity against the varicella-zoster virus. They found that the flow FAMA test showed a strong correlation with the classic FAMA test and a glycoprotein enzyme immunoassay (gpEIA) test. The researchers concluded that the flow FAMA test has the potential to be used as an alternative to the classic FAMA test, and pre-made FAMA antigen may reduce preparation time and lot-to-lot variation. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at the Department of Mathematics explores the transmission dynamics of HIV and Varicella-Zoster co-infection. The researchers aim to investigate the cost-effectiveness of optimal control strategies for managing this co-infection. Using mathematical modeling, the study analyzes the equilibrium points and stability of the model, calculates the effective reproduction numbers, formulates optimal control strategies, and performs sensitivity analysis and numerical simulations. The research concludes that treating Varicella-Zoster infected individuals to increase their recovery rate and recovery period is the most cost-effective strategy. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Cape Town explores the neurological manifestations of the Varicella zoster virus (VZV), which causes infections in the central nervous system. The study presents three cases of VZV reactivation, or herpes zoster, each resulting in different neurological pathologies. The patients received treatment with intravenous acyclovir, and while two patients experienced disease resolution, one patient did not survive. The study highlights the various ways in which VZV can affect the central nervous system, such as meningitis, encephalitis, myelitis, and arteritis. This research provides valuable insights into the clinical manifestations of VZV affecting the central nervous system in patients in the Western Cape province of South Africa. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Pittsburgh examined the rates of varicella-zoster virus (VZV) pretransplant immunization, exposures, and posttransplant disease among pediatric solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients. The study found that a significant number of children did not receive the recommended two doses of the varicella vaccine before transplantation, and missed vaccination opportunities were more common among children aged 1-4 years. Additionally, VZV exposures and diseases still occurred among these patients. The researchers concluded that optimizing immunization and ensuring patients have a defined VZV serostatus before transplantation are important goals. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Korea University evaluated the cost-benefit of varicella vaccination programs in South Korea. The study utilized data from South Korea's health databases to estimate the burden of varicella and vaccination records. The findings showed that both one-dose and two-dose vaccination programs were cost-effective compared to no vaccination, with substantial societal cost savings. Implementing either a one-dose or two-dose varicella vaccination regimen in South Korea could lead to cost reductions and improved public health outcomes. However, other factors such as disease severity and transmission dynamics should also be considered. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the National Skin Center in Singapore provides valuable information on the herpes zoster virus, which is responsible for causing conditions such as herpes zoster and post-herpetic neuralgia. The study discusses the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical features, diagnosis, management, and vaccination strategies for these conditions. It emphasizes the importance of early initiation of antivirals and the use of anticonvulsants or tricyclic antidepressants for high-risk patients. The study also highlights the effectiveness of the recombinant zoster vaccine in preventing herpes zoster. With the majority of adults in Singapore at risk of developing herpes zoster, it is crucial for clinicians to be knowledgeable about its diagnosis and management. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus has shed new light on the herpes zoster virus, which causes shingles. The study found that non-infectious extracellular vesicles released by the virus-infected neurons can alter the function of distant cells and tissues, suppressing the antiviral response and promoting the invasion of secondary pathogens. This challenges the current understanding of the virus and suggests that it may contribute to complications beyond the initial infection site. Further research is needed to understand the role of these vesicles in viral spread and secondary disease development. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the Department of Neurology discusses the findings of a case study on the herpes zoster virus. The study focuses on a rare neurological complication of the virus, which caused reduced unilateral sweating in a 34-year-old woman. The patient exhibited symptoms such as sore throat, dizziness, and reduced sweating on the left side of her body. The research suggests that the reduced sweating was due to damage to the autonomic nervous system caused by the activation of latent herpes zoster virus. Doctors should consider this possibility when treating patients with acute hemibody sweat reduction. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Rothschild Foundation Hospital in Paris, France, has shed light on the occurrence of meningoencephalitis caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) in intensive care unit (ICU) settings. The study focused on a 65-year-old man who developed neurological impairment and tested positive for VZV in his cerebrospinal fluid. Treatment with intravenous acyclovir resulted in gradual improvement of his neurological status. However, despite recovering from VZV meningoencephalitis, the patient passed away 44 days later due to cardiac arrest. The study highlights the importance of considering VZV recurrence and conducting CSF PCR analysis in ICU patients with neurological complications. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the University of Freiburg in Germany discusses the variable clinical courses of bone marrow failure (BMF) in children following varicella zoster virus (VZV) infection or VZV vaccination. The study highlights the life-threatening nature of VZV-associated BMF, with some patients requiring hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) for treatment. The research emphasizes the importance of early detection and appropriate management of this condition. The study has been peer-reviewed and provides valuable insights into the understanding of VZV-related BMF. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the French National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM) aimed to characterize the differences between Herpes Simplex virus encephalitis (HSVE) and Varicella-Zoster virus encephalitis (VZVE) and other causes of infectious encephalitis (IE). The study compared 132 cases of HSVE, 65 cases of VZVE, and 297 cases of other IE. The researchers found that HSVE and VZVE have distinct clinical presentations, outcomes, and prognostic factors. The study also found that the timing of antiviral treatment initiation had a greater impact on the outcome of HSVE compared to VZVE. However, the researchers noted that this difference could be due to the smaller sample size and lower outcome rate of VZVE cases. [Extracted from the article]

A clinical trial, NCT06482216, is currently underway to investigate the relationship between varicella-zoster virus (VZV) antibody levels and the risk of subsequent varicella breakout. The trial consists of two parts: a retrospective cohort study and a prospective cohort study. Sinovac (Dalian) Vaccine Technology Co., Ltd. is conducting the trial, which is currently in the recruitment phase. The article explores the importance of varicella vaccines in pediatrics, the role of antibodies in immunization, and the use of immunoglobulins in clinical research and the development of biological products. It emphasizes the significance of clinical trials and studies in public health and the control of communicable diseases. [Extracted from the article]

An open-label clinical trial, NCT06484686, is being conducted to evaluate the immunity persistence of the live attenuated varicella vaccine at 6 and 10 years after booster dose immunization. The trial is being conducted by Sinovac (Dalian) Vaccine Technology Co., Ltd. The study aims to assess the seropositive rate and geometric mean titer of varicella-zoster virus antibodies at 6 and 10 years after booster vaccination. The trial is currently in the recruitment phase and is expected to be completed by September 2026. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden discusses the impact of bone marrow-suppressive treatments on children's memory T cells in relation to chickenpox. The study focused on 53 children, including those with cancer and severe hematological disorders, who were receiving bone marrow-suppressive treatment. The findings indicate that children undergoing or who have finished bone marrow-suppressive treatment display qualitative differences in their T-cell memory compartment, potentially increasing their susceptibility to severe viral infections and impacting their immunotherapy. This research highlights the importance of understanding the effects of these treatments on children's immune systems. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by Ankara University Faculty of Medicine in Turkey examined the reactivation of the Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV) after pediatric allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). The research found that VZV reactivation occurred in 21.2% of patients, with the highest incidence between 6-12 months post-HSCT. Risk factors for herpes zoster (HZ) included older age at HSCT, female gender, history of varicella infection, lack of varicella vaccination, and low lymphocyte and CD4/CD8 counts. The study suggests that tailoring acyclovir prophylaxis based on varicella history and immune function may help reduce HZ-related complications. [Extracted from the article]