Herpes zoster ophthalmicus after COVID-19 vaccine booster in healthy younger adult: a case report

Abstract

There were growing reports of herpes zoster reactivation after the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination, including a more severe form, herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO). A 35-year-old male presented HZO in his left V1 dermatome 10 days after his COVID-19 vaccine booster with Moderna (messenger RNA-1273). He had no history of chronic disease, immuno-compromised, autoimmune, malignancy, or long-term immunosuppressive drug use. The rash improved without any further complications after being treated with oral valacyclovir for 7 days. This was a unique case of HZO after the COVID-19 vaccine in a booster setting in healthy younger adults. The association of herpes zoster after a COVID vaccine remained inconclu-sive and potentially coincidental, especially without the known risk factor. However, we would like to add a report to increase awareness among physicians and the general population, for early recognition and treatment with an antiviral.