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BMC Infectious Diseases

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Open Access 01-12-2017 | Research article

Varicella zoster virus-associated morbidity and mortality in Africa – a systematic review

Authors: Hannah Hussey, Leila Abdullahi, Jamie Collins, Rudzani Muloiwa, Gregory Hussey, Benjamin Kagina

Published in: BMC Infectious Diseases | Issue 1/2017

Abstract

Background

Varicella zoster virus (VZV) causes varicella and herpes zoster. These vaccine preventable diseases are common globally. Most available data on VZV epidemiology are from industrialised temperate countries and cannot be used to guide decisions on the immunization policy against VZV in Africa. This systematic review aims to review the published data on VZV morbidity and mortality in Africa.

Methods

All published studies conducted in Africa from 1974 to 2015 were eligible. Eligible studies must have reported any VZV epidemiological measure (incidence, prevalence, hospitalization rate and mortality rate). For inclusion in the review, studies must have used a defined VZV case definition, be it clinical or laboratory-based.

Results

Twenty articles from 13 African countries were included in the review. Most included studies were cross-sectional, conducted on hospitalized patients, and half of the studies used varying serological methods for diagnosis. VZV seroprevalence was very high among adults. Limited data on VZV seroprevalence in children showed very low seropositivity to anti-VZV antibodies. Co-morbidity with VZV was common.

Conclusion

There is lack of quality data that could be used to develop VZV control programmes, including vaccination, in Africa.

Trial registration

PROSPERO 2015: CRD42015026144.

Available only for authorised users

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Title: Varicella zoster virus-associated morbidity and mortality in Africa – a systematic review
Authors: Hannah Hussey
Leila Abdullahi
Jamie Collins
Rudzani Muloiwa
Gregory Hussey
Benjamin Kagina
Publication date: 01-12-2017
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: BMC Infectious Diseases / Issue 1/2017
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2334
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12879-017-2815-9

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Varicella zoster virus-associated morbidity and mortality in Africa – a systematic review

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Trial registration

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Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Trial registration

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