VÍRUS DA VARICELA ZOSTER - PROPOSTA DE ATUAÇÃO DOS SERVIÇOS DE SAÚDE OCUPACIONAIS HOSPITALARES

Introduction: The varicella-zoster virus causes a self-limiting, highly contagious, and usually benign disease, with a dual clinical presentation, Varicella and Herpes Zoster. In high-risk populations, including immunocompromised patients, pregnant women, and newborns, the infection can be associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Objective: To provide healthcare professionals with adequate information on the identification, control, and prevention of occupational transmission of the virus, with proposed actions by Hospital Occupational Health Services. Materials and Methods: A narrative review of the main guidelines from national and international health authorities was conducted, supplemented with articles searched on PubMed and SCOPUS using related terms. Results and Discussion: Virus transmission occurs between healthcare workers and patients through airborne or contact routes. Immunity status through natural disease or vaccination against varicella should be verified and ensured whenever possible. Active or passive immunization and isolation may be used in specific post-exposure approaches. Conclusions: To prevent infection transmission in hospital settings, the development and implementation of hospital policies for adequate infection control are justified.