Use of genomic analysis of varicella-zoster virus to investigate suspected varicella-zoster transmission within a renal unit.
BACKGROUND
The source of hospital-acquired chickenpox infection may be presumed from a known exposure, but has not been previously proven using genomic analysis.


OBJECTIVE
Investigation of suspected VZV transmission was done using single nucleotide polymorphism genomic analysis.


METHODS
Comparison was made of viral isolates from two patients with chickenpox on the same ward who were not known to have had direct contact.


RESULTS
An identical genotype in the variable R1 region of the VZV was isolated from the two patients.


CONCLUSIONS
Inapparent hospital-acquired transmission was the most likely route of infection.
Department of Medical Microbiology, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Foresterhill, Aberdeen AB25 2ZN, UK. p.molyneau@arh.gramphian
P J
PJ
Molyneaux
S
S
Parker
I H
IH
Khan
C G M
CG
Millar
J
J
Breuer
D000212:Acyclovir / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000328:Adult; D000998:Antiviral Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002644:Chickenpox / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000635:transmission* / Q000821:virology; D003428:Cross Infection; D004279:DNA, Viral / Q000032:analysis / Q000235:genetics; D005455:Fluorescent Antibody Technique; D023281:Genomics; D014645:Herpesvirus 3, Human / Q000235:genetics* / Q000302:isolation & purification; D006757:Hospital Units; D006801:Humans; D016133:Polymerase Chain Reaction; D020641:Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000998:Antiviral Agents; D004279:DNA, Viral; D000212:Acyclovir