Final answer:
Passive immunoprophylaxis following exposure to VZV is recommended for high-risk individuals, such as pregnant women and immunocompromised patients, to prevent or mitigate chickenpox. Artificial passive immunity involves the injection of antibodies to provide immediate but temporary protection.
Step-by-step explanation:
Indications for the use of passive immunoprophylaxis following exposure to Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV), which causes chickenpox, are primarily given for individuals who are at high risk for severe disease. This form of artificial passive immunity involves injecting antibodies into a person who has been exposed to VZV but has not yet contracted the illness or in those who cannot receive the live vaccine due to immunocompromised status. High-risk individuals include pregnant women, neonates, individuals with weakened immune systems, and those on immunosuppressive therapy.
The use of artificial passive immunity after VZV exposure can help reduce the severity or prevent the onset of chickenpox. This preemptive treatment is especially important in people for whom chickenpox could lead to serious complications. For such individuals, early administration of VZV immune globulin can be life-saving. It should be noted that in the context of an active chickenpox infection, the use of antiviral agents like acyclovir is common amongst patients to reduce symptom severity and length, such as those with shingles. Additionally, vaccination provides a more long-term solution by inducing active immunity and is recommended for various groups including children and adults over 60 years old to prevent initial infection or reactivation of the dormant virus.