Varicella-zoster virus disease and epidemiology: seeking better control strategies--Part 1.

The purpose of this two-part series is to review strategies for the control of varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infection and ongoing related public-health discussions in Canada. This part focuses on the clinical and epidemiologic description of varicella-zoster virus disease and summarizes the epidemiologic data available through routine national surveillance in Canada. Part 2, to be published in an upcoming issue, will review strategies for control of VZV infection, including those used in countries where a licensed vaccine is available, as well as highlight developments in Canada for introducing a control strategy.