Human Varicella-Zoster Immunoglobulin (human varicella-zoster immunoglobulin): Reviews and patient testimonials

Human Varicella-Zoster Immunoglobulin

Prophylaxis against varicella zoster virus (VZV) infection in at risk patients exposed to varicella (chickenpox) or herpes zoster:

1. pregnant women with negative VZV immune status especially up to early in the third trimester

2. neonates whose mothers develop varicella infection within 7 days before and 7 days after delivery

3. neonates whose mothers have no history of varicella and/or a negative immune status

4. premature infants <28 weeks of gestation or newborns with low birth weight

5. adults and children with no history of varicella and/or a negative immune status, receiving immunosuppressive therapy including steroids, cytostatic agents, radiotherapy, recent stem cell transplantation, or who have congenital or acquired immunodeficiency disorders and are not receiving replacement therapy with immunoglobulin.

Notes on use of Human Varicella-Zoster Immunoglobulin

Whenever possible, contacts without a definite history of chickenpox should be screened for antibody by a sensitive test (e.g. ELISA, radioimmunoassay or immunofluorescence). There is no need to test neonates for antibody.

If antibodies to VZV are detectable, Human Varicella-Zoster Immunoglobulin is generally NOT needed. The following infants will possess maternal antibody and do NOT require Human Varicella-Zoster Immunoglobulin.

(i) Infants born more than seven days after the onset of maternal chickenpox.

(ii) Infants whose mothers have a positive history of chickenpox and/or a positive antibody result.

(iii) Infants whose mothers develop zoster (shingles) before or after delivery.

Molecule: human varicella-zoster immunoglobulin