Type of Varicella-Zoster Virus Infection in a Fetus or Newborn Based on Maternal Factors During the Pregnancy

Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV) infections of a fetus or neonate are relatively uncommon but can be associated with significant morbidity and mortality.

Maternal factors affecting transmission:

(1) level of VZV immunity

(2) immunosuppression or immunodeficiency

(3) gestational age at the time of exposure

Maternal infection with transmission is unlikely if the mother has protective immunity and is immunocompetent.

Time of Exposure	Probable Consequence to Offspring
first or second trimester	congenital varicella syndrome (fetal varicella syndrome)
third trimester	herpes zoster possible in late infancy or early childhood
perinatal	disseminated varicella infection

Maternal herpes zoster is unlikely to cause an adverse fetal or neonatal outcome but rarely a fetus may develop the congenital varicella syndrome.

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