Most individuals become infected with varicella zoster virus (VZV) during childhood which results in a disease commonly known as chicken pox. After the individual recovers from chicken pox the virus remains dormant in their body. This virus will commonly re-emerge when the individual reaches an advanced age and cause a disease commonly known as shingles. The shingles disease is what stage in the disease progression of the varicella zoster virus?

• A. Period of latency.
• B. Period of illness.
• C. Period of decline.
• D. Period of resurgence.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the life cycle of the varicella zoster virus (VZV). Initially, VZV causes chicken pox during childhood, which is the primary infection stage.
2. Recognize that after the initial infection, VZV enters a dormant state within the body, specifically in the nerve cells. This is known as the latency period.
3. Identify that during the latency period, the virus is inactive and does not cause symptoms. This period can last for many years.
4. Learn that as individuals age or if their immune system becomes weakened, the virus can reactivate. This reactivation is known as the period of resurgence.
5. During the period of resurgence, the virus causes shingles, which is characterized by a painful rash. This stage is distinct from the initial illness and the latency period, marking it as the period of resurgence.