Advances in epidemiological researches of Herpes zoster

Herpes zoster (HZ, also known as shingles), caused by reactivation of latent varicella zoster virus (VZV), is a viral disease characterized by a painful skin rash with blisters involving a limited area. Elderly individuals older than fifty years of age are at increased risk of contracting HZ. In China, HZ becomes a significant health burden along with population aging. The virological characteristics, clinical diagnosis, epidemiological characteristics of HZ are summarized in this review. Moreover, the burden of HZ, risk factors as well as the prevention and control of HZ are also discussed. Key words: Herpes zoster; Epidemiology; Risk factor; Herpes zoster vaccine