HERPES ZOSTER (SHINGLES): HEALTH CARE COSTS

Course overview

Herpes zoster (HZ; also known as shingles) is caused by reactivation of a latent varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes chickenpox (i.e., primary varicella infection). During chickenpox, VZV travels from the skin to the cranial nerves and dorsal root ganglion cells, where it becomes inactive and dormant after the active chickenpox infection subsides. This continuing education module is designed to give the reader/learner an increased understanding of relevant research regarding the health care costs associated with HZ, including evidence-based information on the clinical presentation, treatment strategies, and overall impact of cost to the healthcare system. Readers may explore any or all of the topics. One contact hour of continuing education credit is available for those who successfully complete the post-test and evaluation form.