Varicella zoster virus reactivation following COVID-19 vaccination: a report of 3 cases

Abstract

Abstract Background The advent of vaccination against COVID-19 brought great expectations for the control of the pandemic. As novel vaccines, much of the associated side effects were unknown. Currently, an increasing number of reports from side effects of COVID-19 vaccines have been published, namely on cutaneous reactions. These are of utmost importance to increase our knowledge about possible undesirable effects and its prevention. Methods We describe a series of 3 cases who presented with varicella zoster virus (VZV) reactivation following the first dose of 3 different COVID-19 vaccines. Results Three patients sought their Family Doctor after developing typical lesions of VZV reactivation, following a period of 3–13 days after COVID-19 vaccination. None was under immunosuppressive therapy. The 3 patients recovered in a few weeks and the subsequent doses of the vaccines were administered, without recurrence of the symptoms. Conclusions These cases highlight the possibility of VZV reactivation after the first dose of COVID-19 vaccines. Family Doctors should be aware of this event and play an important role informing and reassuring local communities for this possible vaccine reaction.