Varicella Zoster Infection

Varicella zoster virus (VZV) is responsible for two distinct illnesses. The first encounter, usually in childhood, produces chickenpox, a highly contagious rash illness. The virus then lies dormant in nerve tissue and can reactivate years or decades later as shingles (herpes zoster), a painful, blistering rash that follows a nerve path on one side of the body. Shingles is common across Southeast and East Asia, where the ageing population makes reactivation increasingly frequent.

Medicine used to treat Varicella Zoster Infection

Zovirax

Aciclovir

200 · 400 · 800mg

Formulated to target herpes simplex virus infection to alleviate painful symptoms and support healing.

From $0.46 / tablet View

Antiviral treatment for VZV

Both chickenpox and shingles respond to antivirals. Aciclovir is the established first-line agent: it works by blocking viral DNA replication, reducing the duration and severity of the rash, and, in shingles, lowering the risk of post-herpetic neuralgia, a nerve pain that can persist long after the rash clears. Treatment is most effective when started within 72 hours of the rash appearing, so prompt medical assessment matters. Seek care urgently if the rash involves the face or eye, if you develop confusion or weakness, or if symptoms are severe in someone who is immunocompromised.