Varicella zoster virus and the central nervous system
Benson Ogunjimi1,2, Charlotte Warren-Gash3, Werner J D Ouwendijk4
1Antwerp Center for Translational Immunology and Virology (ACTIV), Centre for Health Economics Research and Modeling Infectious Diseases (CHERMID), Vaccine and Infectious Disease Institute (VAXINFECTIO), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium. benson@uantwerp.be.
Nature Reviews. Microbiology
|February 24, 2026
Summary
Varicella zoster virus (VZV) reactivation is linked to central nervous system (CNS) conditions like stroke and dementia. Herpes zoster vaccination may reduce these risks, but more research is needed.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Immunology
- Virology
Background:
- Varicella zoster virus (VZV) causes chickenpox and shingles.
- VZV can affect the central nervous system (CNS), with emerging links to stroke and dementia.
- Observational studies suggest herpes zoster vaccination may lower risks of cardiovascular events and dementia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the relationship between VZV and CNS conditions.
- To analyze VZV physiology and immunity in relation to neurological disorders.
- To identify research gaps for establishing definitive links between VZV and CNS diseases.
Main Methods:
- Multidisciplinary review of VZV physiology and immunity.
- Critical analysis of epidemiological and observational studies.
- Discussion of study limitations and future research directions.
Main Results:
- Growing evidence suggests VZV reactivation is associated with stroke and dementia.
- Vaccination against herpes zoster shows potential in reducing cardiovascular events and dementia.
- Methodological challenges hinder definitive interpretation of current findings.
Conclusions:
- The link between VZV and CNS conditions requires further investigation.
- Understanding VZV's role in CNS health is crucial for public health and aging.
- Future research should address current study weaknesses to establish actionable medical insights.
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