Herpes zoster and meningitis due to reactivation of varicella vaccine virus in an immunocompetent child

Pediatr Infect Dis J. 2011 Mar;30(3):266-8. doi: 10.1097/INF.0b013e3181f63cf9.

Abstract

Neurologic complications from varicella zoster virus (VZV) reactivation are rare. In this article, we describe a previously immunized child who developed herpes zoster with meningitis. Vaccine strain of VZV was recovered from a skin swab and the cerebrospinal fluid. Reactivation of the vaccine strain of VZV should be recognized as a potential cause of meningitis in children.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Chickenpox Vaccine*
  • Child
  • Herpes Zoster / complications*
  • Herpes Zoster / diagnosis*
  • Herpes Zoster / pathology
  • Herpesvirus 3, Human / isolation & purification*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Meningitis, Viral / diagnosis*
  • Meningitis, Viral / pathology
  • Skin / virology
  • Virus Activation

Substances

  • Chickenpox Vaccine