Epidemiology of Pediatric Herpes Zoster After Varicella Infection: A Population-Based Study

Abstract

There are limited population-based data regarding pediatric herpes zoster (HZ).

Trends in varicella and mumps vaccination rates in children under 3 years of age in a tertiary children's hospital in Japan

“…This indicates that infants are likely to be protected by herd immunity. Given that varicella infection during infancy is associated with higher mortality and a greater frequency of herpes zoster infection in childhood, [29][30][31][32] vaccination may help prevent long-term complications as well. This study has several limitations.…”

Time trends in pediatric Herpes zoster hospitalization rate after Varicella immunization

“…have reported, however, that HZ incidence has increased in children 10–19 years of age and decreased in younger children . Moreover, a recent population‐based study from Taiwan reported that, after Varicella vaccination implementation, children diagnosed with Varicella between the ages 2 and 8 years had a significantly increased incidence of HZ compared with that observed before the vaccination program …”

“…10 Moreover, a recent population-based study from Taiwan reported that, after Varicella vaccination implementation, children diagnosed with Varicella between the ages 2 and 8 years had a significantly increased incidence of HZ compared with that observed before the vaccination program. 7 Field experts had initially expressed concerns, that HZ incidence rates would increase notably in persons with pre-existing natural immunity within the first 30 years following the implementation of universal Varicella immunization. 5,6 The initially anticipated effects of universal Varicella immunization on HZ incidence rates, however, may have underestimated the effects of endogenous boosting, as well as of the exposure of naturally immune subjects to Varicella by HZ patients.…”

“…It is postulated that the widespread adoption of Varicella vaccination, and consequent decrease in natural exposure and immune boosting effects, may explain the rising HZ rates, primarily among immune adults . Such an association, however, has not been clarified in children to date . The aim of this study was therefore to evaluate the effect of universal Varicella vaccination on HZ hospital admissions in immunocompetent children in Greece.…”

“…5,6 Such an association, however, has not been clarified in children to date. 7 The aim of this study was therefore to evaluate the effect of universal Varicella vaccination on HZ hospital admissions in immunocompetent children in Greece.…”