Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-2008
Abstract
Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infections are a particular problem in healthcare settings. A survey of chickenpox was carried out amongst healthcare workers (HCWs) following potential ward exposures. A prior history of chickenpox was given by 61/98 (62.2). Of 64 HCWs tested for VZV IgG, 10 (15.6) were seronegative, indicating susceptibility. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of a history of prior chickenpox were 57.4, 90, 96.4, and 31.0, respectively. VZV screening of HCWs without a history of chickenpox, and vaccination of susceptible HCWs should be undertaken in this hospital.
Keywords
Varicella-zoster virus, Chickenpox, Health personnel, Malaysia
Divisions
fac_med
Publication Title
Medical Journal of Malaysia
Volume
63
Issue
5
Publisher
Malaysian Medical Association
Additional Information
Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine Building, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, MALAYSIA