Varicella zoster virus is a member of the alphaherpesvirus group and is the cause of both chickenpox (also known as varicella) and shingles (herpes zoster).

The virus is surrounded by a covering, or envelope, that is made of lipid. As such, the envelope dissolves readily in solvents such as alcohol. Wiping surfaces with alcohol is thus an effective means of inactivating the virus and preventing spread of chickenpox. Inside the lipid envelope is a protein shell that houses the deoxyribonucleic acid.

Varicella zoster virus is related to Herpes Simplex viruses types 1 and 2. Indeed, nucleic acid analysis has revealed that the genetic material of the three viruses is highly similar, both in the genes present and in the arrangement of the genes.

Chickenpox is the result of a person's first infection with the virus. Typically, chickenpox occurs most often in children. From 75% to 90% of the...