Varicella Outbreak at a Summer Camp for Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Infected Children

Abstract

Widespread varicella transmission occurred at the camp. A case of zoster was the most likely source. The risk for such outbreaks can be minimized through vaccinating susceptible staff members, considering vaccination for asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic HIV-infected children according to Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices and American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines, rigorously collecting recent varicella and zoster exposure information, excluding anyone with active varicella or zoster or with recent varicella or zoster exposure, and considering varicella and zoster exposures at camp to be potentially camp-wide.varicella, human immunodeficiency virus infections, disease outbreaks, intravenous immunoglobulin.

School, child care and camp exclusion policies for chickenpox: A rational approach

“…There are two published reports of varicella outbreaks at summer camps (23,24). The first occurred in Connecticut in 1997 at a camp for HIV-infected children.…”

Medical utilization by immunodeficient, hemophiliac, and HIV positive children during summer camp: Evidence for a safe camper experience

“…The most serious outbreak of infection at an HIV/AIDS camp was reported in 2001 by Winquist et al Varicella infected 36% of the campers, and the index case was believed to be a child with active Zoster. The authors concluded, however, that an HIV/AIDS camp could be safe given proper vaccination, screening, and other precautions 12.…”

Disseminated Varicella Zoster Virus in an Immunized Child as the Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome‐defining Illness

“…Reports of VZV outbreaks in HIV‐positive children are well documented (1–4). However, we present a case of a 10‐year‐old boy with previously undiagnosed HIV until presenting with disseminated varicella.…”