Immune response of varicella vaccinees to different varicella-zoster virus genotypes

The objective was to verify specific antibody response of varicella vaccinees to varicella-zoster virus (VZV) strains of different major clades and subclades circulating currently in Germany. The neutralization test and the fluorescent antibody to membrane antigen test measuring VZV glycoprotein (gp)-specific antibodies were used as methods. All VZV strains clustering into the main clades 1, 3 and 5 were neutralized by vaccine-induced antibodies and showed specific reaction with VZVgp-specific antibodies of vaccinees. In conclusion, this study provides first experimental evidence that varicella vaccines based on the Japanese Oka strain induce antibody response directed to VZV strains circulating currently in Germany.