Shingles and Chickenpox (Varicella-Zoster Virus) - Introduction

Other Herpes Viruses

The varicella-zoster virus belongs to a group of herpes viruses that includes seven human viruses (it also includes animal viruses as well). Herpes viruses are similar in shape and size and reproduce within the structure of a cell. The particular cell depends upon the specific virus. The human herpes viruses are:

• Herpes Simplex virus (the most common).
• Varicella-zoster virus (VZV).
• Cytomegalovirus (CMV).
• Epstein-Barre virus (causes mononucleosis).
• Human herpesvirus type 6 (causes roseola).
• Human herpesvirus type 7 (HHV-7).

All herpes viruses share some common properties, including a pattern of active symptoms followed by latent inactive periods that can last for months, years, or even for a lifetime.

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