A case of reactivation of varicella-zoster virus after BNT162b2 vaccine second dose?

We report a case of itchy papulovesicular rash consistent with varicella-zoster virus reactivation after Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine second dose administration. While there have been cases of varicella-zoster virus reactivation due to COVID-19 or COVID-19 vaccine inoculation in older individuals with pre-existing conditions, this case report describes the first case of varicella-zoster virus reactivation on a healthy, young male in the absence of pre-existing conditions. The mechanisms underlying varicella-zoster virus reactivation in patients with COVID-19 are unknown and should be further characterized.

Automated summary

This case report describes the first instance of varicella-zoster virus reactivation in a healthy young male following Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine administration, without underlying conditions. The mechanisms of varicella-zoster virus reactivation in patients with COVID-19 remain unknown and warrant further investigation.