Varicella Zoster Virus infection - Herpes zoster (Shingles) & Chicken Pox

Pregnant/Immunocompromised/Neonate:

Seek urgent specialist advice as at high risk of severe complication.

HIV testing is recommended as herpes zoster is an HIV indicator condition.

NICE Clinical Knowledge Summaries - Chicken pox

Treat with oral Aciclovir if >14 years old and presents within 24 hours of rash onset, particularly for people with severe chickenpox or those at increased risk of complications, such as smokers.

NICE Clinical Knowledge Summaries - Shingles

Treat with oral Aciclovir within 72hr of rash onset if:

• Aged 50 years and over.  
• Non-truncal involvement (excluding the head and neck, where admission or specialist advice is). 
• Moderate or severe pain/rash 
• Predisposing skin conditions.