What is another word for varicella zoster virus?
Pronunciation: [vˌaɹa͡ɪsˈɛlə zˈɒstə vˈa͡ɪɹəs] (IPA) 
Varicella zoster virus, commonly known as chickenpox virus, is a highly contagious virus that causes the illness chickenpox. This virus is a member of the herpesvirus family and can remain dormant in the nervous system after an initial infection, leading to the development of shingles later in life. Other synonyms for varicella zoster virus include human herpesvirus 3, HHV-3, VZV, and varicella virus. Chickenpox is a common childhood illness characterized by itchy, red spots that can cover the entire body, while shingles typically occurs in adults and causes a painful rash and blisters in a specific area of the body. Vaccines are available to prevent both chickenpox and shingles.
