VZIG should be administered to which group after exposure to varicella?

VZIG should be administered to which group after exposure to varicella?

• A. Susceptible immunocompromised individuals
• B. Healthy adults
• C. Immunocompetent children with a prior infection
• D. Anyone exposed, regardless of immune status

Answer: (A)

After exposure to varicella, some people need immediate, passive protection because they’re not immune and cannot reliably fight off the virus. Varicella Zoster Immune Globulin provides that protection by supplying antibodies right away, which is most important for those who are immunocompromised and thus at high risk for severe disease. Susceptible immunocompromised individuals are the group that benefits most, since their immune systems may not respond adequately on their own and they can develop serious complications from varicella. VZIG helps prevent infection or lessen its severity when given after exposure. Healthy adults or immunocompetent individuals with prior infection have immunity already, so they do not need VZIG. Making VZIG available to everyone exposed would expose people who don’t need it to an unnecessary treatment.

After exposure to varicella, some people need immediate, passive protection because they’re not immune and cannot reliably fight off the virus. Varicella Zoster Immune Globulin provides that protection by supplying antibodies right away, which is most important for those who are immunocompromised and thus at high risk for severe disease.

Susceptible immunocompromised individuals are the group that benefits most, since their immune systems may not respond adequately on their own and they can develop serious complications from varicella. VZIG helps prevent infection or lessen its severity when given after exposure.

Healthy adults or immunocompetent individuals with prior infection have immunity already, so they do not need VZIG. Making VZIG available to everyone exposed would expose people who don’t need it to an unnecessary treatment.