Identifying underlying causes of immune deficiencies that increase shingles risk

(JCI Journals) Varicella zoster virus can remain dormant for decades and reactivate to cause shingles. Shingles occurs at a higher rate in immunocompromised individuals. A study published this week in the JCI provides insights into a metabolic mechanism for immune deficiencies that permit reactivation of long-latent viruses. These findings are a step toward new strategies to improve preventative treatments for shingles and other infections in high-risk populations.
Source: EurekAlert! - Infectious and Emerging Diseases - Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: news