Prospective surveillance of varicella-zoster virus infections in an out-patient setting in Switzerland

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Infectious Diseases
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Limited data exist on varicella's clinical impact in ambulatory settings.
• Switzerland lacks a universal varicella immunization program.
• Understanding real-world varicella outcomes is crucial for public health strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine clinical outcomes, medical management, and resource use for varicella patients in Switzerland.
• To assess the incidence and nature of varicella complications in an outpatient setting.
• To evaluate the implications for varicella prophylactic immunization.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study of 236 patients diagnosed with varicella by pediatricians and general practitioners.
• Data collection on patient demographics, clinical course, complications, and household transmission.
• Analysis of complications in relation to age and underlying health status.

Main Results:

• The study included 236 patients, predominantly healthy children (94%) with a median age of 5 years.
• Varicella occurred in households, with secondary cases being most common (67%).
• Complications were observed in 11% of patients, all under 12 years old, and resolved without sequelae.

Conclusions:

• Varicella in the outpatient setting, even in healthy individuals, can lead to a notable rate of complications.
• The findings suggest a potential benefit of prophylactic immunization against varicella.
• Further consideration of immunization strategies is warranted based on these real-world data.