<i>Varicella</i> (chickenpox) has “matured” and become even more dangerous

This lecture focuses on varicella (chickenpox), one of the highly contagious diseases, the outbreaks of which can be effectively prevented through vaccination. It highlights modern aspects of the etiology, pathogenesis, epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of varicella. Additionally, the lecture explores the clinical diversity of the disease’s forms and complications, including cases in newborns with perinatal infection. Compelling evidence characterizes varicella as a severe and “non-benign” infectious disease, which ranks among the leading causes of economic losses associated with infectious diseases in Russia. The “maturation” of varicella observed in recent years has led to serious consequences, including more severe complications in adults compared to children, an increased economic burden, and a rising number of cases among pregnant women, resulting in higher rates of congenital and neonatal varicella. In light of increasing varicella incidence in Russia and several other countries, the data presented in this lecture are particularly valuable for practicing physicians, especially family doctors.