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Herpes Zoster (Shingles) in the Practice of a Primary Care Pediatrician

https://doi.org/10.22627/2072-8107-2026-25-2-63-66

Abstract

Reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) in neurons of the trigeminal and spinal ganglia causes a disease known as herpes zoster (shingles, ZH). The disease is rare in childhood and is mainly associated with immunosuppressive conditions. This article presents a case of early diagnosis of ZH in an immunocompetent 7year-old child, which developed due to predisposing factors. Prescribing antiviral therapy at the first sign of a rash allowed for rapid containment of the infection and prevention of complications. Physicians must remain vigilant for herpes zoster to effectively limit the epidemic. This clinical case once again highlights the importance of routine varicella vaccination not only to prevent primary infection but also the risk of developing herpes zoster later.

About the Authors

T. M. Chernova
Saint Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation
Russian Federation

Saint Petersburg



V. N. Timchenko
Saint Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation
Russian Federation

Saint Petersburg



E. A. Elkhawaga
Saint Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation
Russian Federation

Saint Petersburg



O. V. Bulina
Saint Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation
Russian Federation

Saint Petersburg



A. Yu. Tokarskaya
Saint Petersburg City Polyclinic No. 44
Russian Federation

Saint Petersburg



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Review

For citations:


Chernova T.M., Timchenko V.N., Elkhawaga E.A., Bulina O.V., Tokarskaya A.Yu. Herpes Zoster (Shingles) in the Practice of a Primary Care Pediatrician. CHILDREN INFECTIONS. 2026;25(2):63-66. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.22627/2072-8107-2026-25-2-63-66

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ISSN 2072-8107 (Print)
ISSN 2618-8139 (Online)