Final answer:
The varicella zoster virus resides within the nerve-cell ganglia of the body, where it can remain dormant for years before potentially reactivating as shingles.
Step-by-step explanation:
The varicella zoster virus resides within the nerve-cell ganglia of the body. After the initial infection of chickenpox resolves, the virus enters a dormant state in the nerve cells, where it can remain latent for years. If the virus reactivates, it can cause shingles, manifesting as a localized rash and pain in areas served by the affected sensory nerves. The latency and reactivation of the varicella zoster virus are similar to the mechanisms of other herpesviruses, like herpes simplex virus, which can also become dormant and intermittently reactivate.