Varicella-zoster virus causes 314 chickenpox cases in Salta

The varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox in childhood and shingles later in life, can lead to severe complications including neurological issues, pneumonia, and infections affecting the eyes, ears, or blood vessels. The virus can remain latent in nerve ganglia for decades and reactivate due to stress, age, or immunosuppression.

In Salta, health authorities have reported 314 confirmed cases of chickenpox so far this year. The disease is highly contagious, spreading through respiratory droplets or direct contact with vesicular fluid. According to the Pan American Health Organization, the secondary transmission rate is high, with 61% to 100% of susceptible individuals contracting the virus upon exposure. Vaccination remains the primary prevention method, typically administered in two doses during childhood.