The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated the recommendations for the use of immunoglobulins against the herpes zoster virus (Varicella zoster immunoglobulin - VariZIG) reduce the severity of infectious diseases caused by the Varicella zoster virus, which causes chickenpox in children and herpes zoster in adults. An updated version of the recommendations was published in the July issue of the Weekly Mortality and Morbidity Report.

Current recommendations widen the window for prescribing post-exposure prophylaxis to patients at risk of developing severe infection caused by the Varicella zoster virus. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) originally approved VariZIG as a new study drug, recommended for use within the first 4 days of exposure, but subsequent studies have shown that the treatment is effective up to 10 days after exposure to the virus.

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (CDC) approved this extension of the testimony, and the CDC guidelines currently reflect the recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the FDA.

The immunoglobulin VariZIG is an antibody produced from the plasma of healthy donors with high levels of antibodies to the Varicella zoster virus.

The CDC recommends the use of VariZIG in patients without evidence of immunity to the Varicella zoster virus, which is at high risk of developing serious infections caused by the herpes zoster virus, as well as its complications, in cases where patients encounter chickenpox or Herpes zoster, as well as those for whom the vaccine against the virus Varicella zoster is contraindicated.

Immunoglobulin is prescribed as 2 or more injections based on the patient's body weight as soon as possible after exposure to the virus and no later than 10 days after exposure.

In accordance with CDC recommendations, the doctor must take into account 3 factors before prescribing the drug: evidence of a lack of immunity to Varicella zoster, assess the risks of infection and complications.

The new recommendations, in addition to extending the immunoglobulin administration schedule, also contain information on the use of VariZIG in preterm infants exposed to the virus. Previously, the recommendations only contained information on the use of VariZIG in term infants.