Preventing vision loss in herpes zoster ophthalmicus

Herpes zoster (HZ), also known as shingles, is a painful neurocutaneous disorder caused by reactivation of the varicella zoster virus (VZV) following primary VZV infection (chickenpox). Herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO), where VZV reactivates to affect the eye and surrounding structures, accounts for approximately 10-20% of all HZ cases, and is associated with significant morbidity and potential loss of vision. The limited data available from overseas suggest that the incidence of zoster may be increasing, yet this remains unclear, including in Australia. The aim of this project is to examine the frequency of HZ and HZO in Australia, and identify factors which may influence the risk of developing zoster. By better understanding the incidence and predictors for zoster, this study can then help guide more targeted management and prevention strategies, including vaccination.