Zoster relates to shingles, which is a reactivation of the infection that may occur in some people later in life. Another group of concern includes women who have not had chickenpox and are intending to become pregnant because the fetus can be affected. Children whose immune system is affected by a major illness, such as cancer, or who are using particular treatments such as high dose steroids may also experience a more significant infection. These children will be watched closely by their parents and doctors. The risks to these patients and the appropriate treatments and protection will be known.
Treatments are available for more serious chickenpox infection.
Some countries are currently considering whether chickenpox vaccine should be included in their national immunization programs, for example, Singapore and Finland.