Herpes Zoster Virus
(HZV; VZV; Zoster)

What is Herpes Zoster Virus?

Herpes Zoster is a virus acquired primarily during childhood through oral secretions and skin-skin contact. As a child, Herpes Zoster is more commonly known as Chicken Pox. After healing from Chicken Pox, Herpes Zoster does not disappear, but instead lies dormant or inactive within the nervous system. Later in life, either spontaneously or due to immunosuppression, the virus can re-activate. At this time, it is often referred to as Shingles. When Shingles affects the eye, it can be called Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus (HZO).

Signs & Symptoms

When the Herpes Zoster Virus reactivates (Shingles), it can affect any part of the body and cause fever, painful blistering of the skin, and inflammation of nerve fibers. If the rash is present on the face it may affect the cornea (Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus), which could cause decreased or hazy vision and decreased corneal sensation in the affected eye. It is important to note that wherever Shingles appears, it only effects half the body (left or right, not both).

Treatment

Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus is often treated with oral anti-viral medications to decrease the risk of scarring to the cornea. Since the Herpes Zoster Virus can decrease corneal sensitivity, it is important for these patients to have regular follow-up visits to ensure the continued health of the eye.

The information contained within these pages is intended for informational purposes only and does not take the place of consulting a physician.
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Caring for your corneas since 1988.