Varicella Zoster Virus Infection Treatment Market Size - By Treatment Type, By Indication, By Age Group, By Product Type, By Route of Administration, By End Use - Global Forecast, 2025 - 2034

Varicella Zoster Virus Infection Treatment Market Size

The global varicella zoster virus infection treatment market was estimated at USD 1.75 billion in 2024. The market is expected to grow from USD 1.81 billion in 2025 to USD 2.69 billion in 2034, at a CAGR of 4.5% during the forecast period according to the latest report published by Global Market Insights Inc.

The increasing prevalence of herpes zoster (shingles), especially among aging population and people with low immunity, is escalating demand for targeted antiviral drugs and vaccines. For instance, the growing elderly population is a significant growth factor, as the World Health Organization (WHO) indicates that 1 in 6 people worldwide will be aged over 60 years by 2030. In addition, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), more than half of shingles cases occur in people aged above 60 years, with the risk increasing substantially by age 70.
 

Moreover, the increasing recognition of postherpetic neuralgia and its lasting effects on quality of life is significantly driving market growth. As reported by Oxford Academic, more than 18% of individuals develop postherpetic neuralgia within a month, leading to reduced functionality and diminished well-being. With growing advancements in healthcare accessibility, widespread vaccination initiatives, and innovations in antiviral therapies and neuralgia treatment, the market is experiencing significant expansion.
 

A varicella zoster infection treatment refers to a specialized class of antiviral drugs and vaccines designed to manage or prevent infections caused by the varicella zoster virus, that includes chickenpox and shingles. Key players such as GlaxoSmithKline, Merck & Co., Teva Pharmaceuticals, and Pfizer lead the market with robust product portfolios and strong research and development pipelines.
 

Between 2021-2023, the varicella zoster virus infection treatment market was significantly influenced by increased vaccination efforts and improved diagnostic capabilities. The market grew steadily from USD 1.58 billion in 2021 to USD 1.69 billion in 2023. The strong shift toward telehealth consultations and direct-to-consumer pharmaceutical platforms has made prescription antivirals and vaccines more accessible, thereby boosting awareness and enabling early intervention.
 

Regionally, North America dominated the market due to high disease prevalence and healthcare infrastructure, while Asia-Pacific emerged as a fast-growing region driven by rising healthcare investments, aging populations, and expanding immunization programs.
 

Varicella zoster infection treatment includes prescription antivirals and vaccines used to treat or prevent diseases caused by the virus. These therapies complement clinical care and are essential in managing conditions such as chickenpox, shingles, and postherpetic neuralgia.
 

Varicella Zoster Virus Infection Treatment Market Trends

• The varicella zoster virus infection treatment industry is experiencing a positive shift, driven by the rising incidence of herpes zoster, growing awareness of vaccine-preventable diseases, and advancements in antiviral and immunization technologies.
   
• A major trend stimulating the market is the increasing demand for age-specific and risk-based vaccination programs, especially for elderly and immunocompromised individuals, leading to the development of targeted therapies and recombinant vaccines.
   
• As more patients are diagnosed with postherpetic neuralgia and complications from shingles, healthcare providers are prioritizing preventive vaccination and early antiviral intervention over symptomatic treatment alone for shingles vaccine and solutions.
   
• In addition, physician and public health recommendations are a major growth driver in this market. Since varicella zoster infection treatments are often prescribed based on age and immune status, clinical guidance plays a critical role in product adoption and adherence.
   
• The rapid growth of digital health and telemedicine platforms is significantly influencing the varicella zoster virus infection treatment market. Online consultations and electronic health records are enhancing vaccine tracking, outreach, and patient education particularly in remote and underserved regions.
   
• Additionally, the increasing shift toward personalized immunization schedules and combination therapies is driving market innovation. Pharmaceutical companies are investing in dual-action vaccines and AI-powered platforms to optimize treatment plans and delivery models.
   
• Lastly, the integration of varicella zoster infection treatment into broader infectious disease management frameworks including routine adult immunization and chronic disease prevention has gained momentum among healthcare systems and public health agencies, further accelerating market adoption.
   

Varicella Zoster Virus Infection Treatment Market Analysis

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The global market for varicella zoster virus infection treatment was valued at USD 1.58 billion in 2021. The market size reached USD 1.69 billion in 2023, from USD 1.63 billion in 2022.
 

Based on treatment type, the market is categorized into antiviral therapy, corticosteroids and anti-inflammatory agents, vaccines, and other treatment types. The antiviral therapy segment accounted for 51.4% of the market in 2024 due to the rising incidence of herpes zoster infections, growing awareness of viral complications, and advancements in drug formulations. Antiviral therapies have become a vital component of varicella zoster infection treatment across age groups. The segment is expected to exceed USD 1.36 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 4.3% during the forecast period.
 

• The antiviral therapy segment is further bifurcated into acyclovir, valacyclovir famciclovir and other antiviral therapies.
   
• The antiviral therapy segment has emerged as the dominant category in the global varicella zoster virus infection treatment market due to its ability to provide effective results from the infection. This feature is particularly beneficial in pediatric and adult, these therapies, including acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir, are widely used to reduce viral replication and prevent complications such as postherpetic neuralgia.
   
• Rising demand for early intervention and outpatient care is driving the adoption of oral and intravenous antiviral formulations, especially among elderly and immunocompromised patients. Their effectiveness within the first 72 hours of symptom onset makes them a critical component of clinical protocols.
   
• On the other hand, corticosteroids and anti-inflammatory agents segment is expected to grow with a CAGR of 4.6%. The growth of this segment can be attributed to the use of adjunct therapies, such as corticosteroids and anti-inflammatory agents, which are commonly administered in severe cases of varicella zoster infection particularly those involving neuralgia or ocular complications.
   
• Also, vaccines segment is expected to grow with a CAGR of 4.8%. The growth of this segment is stimulated by the rising awareness of preventive care and immunization is driving the vaccine segment in the varicella zoster infection market.
   

Based on the indication, the varicella zoster virus infection treatment market is segmented into varicella (chicken pox), herpes zoster (shingles) and other indications. The varicella (chicken pox) segment accounted for the highest market share of 48.4% in 2024 due to its rising prevalence in early childhood and its potential to cause severe infections.
 

• This segment's dominance is driven by the high prevalence of varicella in children under the age of 10, making it a leading contributor to the global varicella zoster virus infection treatment market. According to the NIH, there are over 140 million cases of varicella, with 4.2 million severe cases requiring hospitalization.
   
• Moreover, chickenpox remains one of the most common childhood infections. Its potential to cause complications such as bacterial superinfections and pneumonia has increased the demand for effective antiviral therapies and vaccines.
   
• According to Cleveland Clinic, chicken pox is common between age group 3- to 6-year-old. Additionally, Johns Hopkins Medicine mentions that, by adulthood 90% people in America have already been affected by the infection, stimulating the market demand.
   
• The increasing inclusion of varicella vaccines in pediatric immunization schedules endorsed by the WHO and national health agencies has played a pivotal role in reducing the incidence of VZV infections.
   
• This segment benefits from robust clinical guidelines, extensive public health initiatives, and the availability of both monovalent and combination vaccine formulations. These factors collectively enhance treatment compliance and expand protective coverage during early childhood, driving growth in the VZV treatment market.
   
• The herpes zoster (shingles) segment is also gaining traction due to increasing incidence of herpes zoster among aging populations is driving growth in this segment. Reactivation of the varicella zoster virus in older adults leads to painful shingles outbreaks, often accompanied by complications like postherpetic neuralgia.
   

Based on age group, the varicella zoster virus infection treatment market is segmented into paediatrics, adults, and geriatrics. The geriatrics segment accounted for the highest market share of 40.2% in 2024 as they have less immunological exposure and are easy susceptible to diseases.
 

• The geriatric population accounts for the largest share of the varicella zoster virus (VZV) infection treatment market, primarily due to their increased vulnerability to infectious diseases. Age-related immune decline makes older adults more susceptible to severe VZV reactivation, driving demand for targeted therapies and preventive measures.  
   
• The segment is driven by the high vulnerability to bacterial infections such as haemophilus influenzae type b, pneumococcal, and meningococcal diseases. This demographic shift, driven by increasing life expectancy and a growing elderly population worldwide, is significantly boosting demand for long-term, preventive treatments such as the shingles vaccine.
   
• According to Baby Memorial Hospital, infections are a major threat to the wellbeing of the elderly population, with global population aging by 2050, 21.4% of people are projected to be aged 60 years or older.
   
• On the other hand, the adult segment is gaining momentum due to the growing elderly population, rising incidence of chronic diseases, and increasing awareness of immunization. Conjugate vaccines for adults, particularly pneumococcal and meningococcal, are being adopted in clinical and travel-related settings to prevent severe complications and hospitalizations.
   

Based on product type, the varicella zoster virus infection treatment market is segmented into branded and generics. The branded segment accounted for the highest market share of 62.1% in 2024.
 

• This segment is propelled by strong product innovation, proven clinical efficacy, and high trust among healthcare providers. Leading pharmaceutical companies have introduced advanced formulations such as recombinant zoster vaccines that offer superior protection and longer-lasting immunity compared to older live-attenuated versions.
   
• These branded vaccines are backed by extensive clinical trials and regulatory approvals, reinforcing their credibility and driving adoption across both public and private healthcare settings.
   
• Additionally, branded treatments benefit from robust marketing strategies, physician education programs, and inclusion in national immunization schedules, particularly in developed markets.
   
• Moreover, the premium pricing of branded products are justified by high-quality manufacturing standards, consistent supply chains, and post-marketing surveillance, which ensures safety and effectiveness.
   
• As a result, healthcare providers and patients often prefer branded options for their reliability and comprehensive protection, especially in high-risk populations such as the elderly.
   
• The generics segment also plays a crucial role in expanding access to varicella zoster treatments, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. These products offer cost-effective alternatives to branded vaccines and antivirals, helping governments and healthcare systems manage budget constraints while maintaining immunization coverage.
   
• However, generic options may lack the latest innovations or extended protection profiles, they remain essential for broadening treatment availability and supporting global health equity.
   

Based on route of administration, the varicella zoster virus infection treatment market is segmented into oral, topical and injectables. The oral segment accounted for the highest market share of 52.5% in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 1.40 billion growing with a CAGR of 4.4% during the analysis period.
 

• The segment is driven its superior ability to deliver varicella zoster infection treatment with consistent absorption and simplified dosing regimens.
   
• Oral medications are easy to administer compared other routes such as injectables, causing higher patient compliance. Adherence to oral therapies is significantly higher when compared to injectable treatments as patients prefer taking a pill at home rather than visiting healthcare facilities for injections.
   
• Topical therapies are witnessing increased market demand due to their effectiveness in managing localized symptoms such as pain, itching, and inflammation associated with skin lesions. The growing preference for non-invasive and supportive care options has driven the development of antiviral creams, analgesic gels, and corticosteroid-based ointments.
   
• Injectables therapies are gaining momentum due to their critical role in emergency care and inpatient settings, where fast-acting relief and precise dosing are essential for managing severe or refractory varicella zoster infection cases.

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Based on end use, the varicella zoster virus infection treatment market is categorized into hospitals and clinics, homecare settings and other end users. The hospitals and clinics segment accounted for the highest market share of 53.1% in 2024.  
 

• Hospitals and clinics represent a major end use segment in the market due to centralized infrastructure, access to trained medical staff, and ability to manage large-scale immunization programs.
   
• Hospitals and clinics play a critical role in both routine and emergency vaccination, offering timely administration and follow-up care for pediatric and adult populations.
   
• According to WHO, global childhood immunization coverage stalled in 2023, leaving 2.7 million additional children un- or under-vaccinated compared to pre-pandemic levels, further emphasizing the importance of hospital and clinic-based vaccine delivery systems.
   
• Moreover, they also support government-led initiatives and public health campaigns by serving as key distribution points for varicella zoster infection treatments. As of 2021, there were 6,090 hospitals in the U.S. and over 165,000 worldwide, providing a vast network for vaccine access and outreach.
   
• On the other hand, homecare settings contribute significantly to the market by rising demand for outpatient management and self-administered therapies that has led to the adoption of oral antivirals, topical agents, and supportive care kits that can be used at home.

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North America Varicella Zoster Virus Infection Treatment Market

The North America dominated the global market for varicella zoster virus infection treatment with a revenue share of 39.4% in 2024.
 

• The market is stimulated by the rising prevalence of herpes zoster infections and increased investment in vaccination programs targeting susceptible populations.
   
• North America benefits from robust healthcare systems, enabling early diagnosis through PCR testing and timely treatment in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
   
• North America hosts major pharmaceutical companies producing antivirals such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir, which are the mainstay treatments for VZV. These companies benefit from strong distribution networks and regulatory support.
   

The U.S. varicella zoster virus infection treatment market was valued at USD 569.5 million and USD 588 million in 2021 and 2022, respectively. The market size reached USD 629.3 million in 2024, growing from USD 607.9 million in 2023.
 

• The increasing herpes zoster incidence in the U.S. is stimulating the market. According to CDC, more than million cases are found in U.S. annually for herpes zoster, is escalating demand for preventive vaccines and antiviral therapies.
   
• Patients and healthcare providers are increasingly prioritizing early intervention and immunization, especially for older adults and immuno-compromised individuals. According to Population Reference Bureau, in 2022, 58 million people were over 65 years old.
   
• Thus, the rising disease burden and strong healthcare investment are key drivers of market growth.
   

Europe Varicella Zoster Virus Infection Treatment Market

Europe market accounted for USD 484 million in 2024 and is anticipated to show lucrative growth over the forecast period.
 

• Rising awareness and adoption of advanced immunization strategies in Europe, along with increasing government initiatives to strengthen healthcare infrastructure, is anticipated to spur growth in the varicella zoster treatment market across the region.
   
• Moreover, advancements in vaccine technologies, such as recombinant formulations and age-specific immunization schedules, along with the introduction of scalable and cost-effective antiviral options, are boosting the demand for varicella zoster infection treatments throughout Europe.
   

Germany varicella zoster virus infection treatment market is anticipated to witness considerable growth over the analysis period.
 

• The rising incidence of chickenpox cases in Germany is contributing to market growth. According to Statista, in 2024, the highest prevalence was observed among children aged 5 to 9 years, with 172.5 cases per 1,000 residents, significantly outpacing other age groups and driving increased demand for treatment solutions.
   
• Germany has a well-established healthcare infrastructure, which supports the recommendation and adoption of varicella zoster infection treatments, especially for elderly and high-risk populations.
   
• In addition, Germany’s robust pharmaceutical and clinical network, including hospitals, vaccination centers, and digital health platforms, ensures wide availability and accessibility of varicella zoster infection therapies and vaccines.
   

Asia Pacific Varicella Zoster Virus Infection Treatment Market

The Asia Pacific market is anticipated to grow at the highest CAGR of 5% during the analysis timeframe.
 

• The market in the Asia-Pacific region is growing rapidly due to the rise in herpes zoster cases, increasing public health awareness, and the improvement of healthcare infrastructure across both urban and rural hospitals and clinics.
   
• Countries such as China, India, and Japan are adopting varicella zoster infection treatment solutions at a faster rate due to enhanced demand for efficient immunization delivery.
   
• Additionally, the rapid increase in digital health initiatives, combined with supportive government policies aimed at integrating digitalization into national healthcare strategies, is significantly accelerating market growth across the region.
   

China varicella zoster virus infection treatment market is predicted to grow significantly over the forecast period.
 

• China holds the largest market share in the region, driven by rapid urbanization and healthcare modernization, which have contributed to a rising incidence of varicella zoster infections particularly among children and the elderly. This trend is fuelling demand for long-term protective treatment options.
   
• In addition, substantial government investments in healthcare infrastructure and digital platforms are enhancing vaccine distribution and treatment accessibility across both urban and rural areas. Recent initiatives include the expansion of cold chain logistics and the implementation of immunization tracking systems, further contributes to market growth.
   
• Furthermore, the growth of clinical services and increased public health education are supporting market expansion, with greater adoption of antiviral therapies and recombinant vaccines among aging and high-risk populations.
   

Latin America Varicella Zoster Virus Infection Treatment Market

Brazil is experiencing significant growth in the Latin America varicella zoster virus infection treatment industry.
 

• The low vaccines coverage and varicella outbreaks in Brazil is stimulating the market demand for effective solutions. In addition, the increasing demand for chicken pox and herpes treatment solutions and long-term care, further contributes to market growth.
   
• Moreover, with the increasing aging population in the country with 22.2 million people aged above 65 in 2023, as stated by GMDP Academy, further escalates the market demand.
   
• Additionally, government investments in healthcare infrastructure and digital platforms are enhancing vaccine distribution and treatment accessibility across both urban and rural regions. These efforts are strengthening the overall healthcare delivery system and supporting sustained market growth.
   

Middle East and Africa Varicella Zoster Virus Infection Treatment Market

Saudi Arabia market is poised to witness substantial growth in Middle East and Africa varicella zoster virus infection treatment industry in 2024.
 

• The rising incidence of infectious diseases and the growing need for preventive care are escalating market demand in Saudi Arabia. Government-led immunization campaigns and increased healthcare access are stimulating the adoption of varicella zoster infection treatments, especially among paediatric and elderly populations stimulating the market for pediatric vaccines.
   
• Government incentives under Vision 2030, along with the expansion of digital health infrastructure and local vaccine production, are boosting demand across public and private healthcare sectors.
   

Varicella Zoster Virus Infection Treatment Market Share

Leading companies such as GlaxoSmithKline, Merck & Co., Pfizer, Teva Pharmaceuticals, and Novartis collectively hold between 55% of the market share in the global varicella zoster virus infection treatment industry. These companies maintain dominance through extensive antiviral and vaccine portfolios, strategic collaborations, regulatory expertise, and continuous innovation. These companies maintain dominance through extensive vaccine portfolios, strategic collaborations, regulatory strength, and continuous innovation. GlaxoSmithKline holds a strong competitive advantage with its varicella zoster infection treatment offerings, which are widely adopted across hospitals and immunization programs.
 

Merck & Co. maintains a competitive edge with its legacy vaccine formulations and diversified antiviral pipeline, catering to both paediatric and adult populations. Pfizer supports global immunization efforts with a robust antiviral research program and strong presence in prescription-based varicella zoster infection treatments.
 

Teva Pharmaceuticals offers cost-effective generic antivirals, expanding access in price-sensitive markets and supporting public health initiatives. Novartis contributes to market growth through advanced antiviral formulations and strategic partnerships with healthcare providers and research institutions.
 

Emerging and niche players such as SK Chemicals, Changchun BCHT Biotechnology, Kamada, Sinovac, and Glenmark Pharmaceuticals are gaining traction with innovative formulations, regional distribution networks, and focus on affordability. Companies like Santa Cruz Biotechnology, Bio-Rad Laboratories, Apotex, and Sandoz support the broader therapeutic landscape through research compounds, generics, and diagnostic tools.
 

Varicella Zoster Virus Infection Treatment Market Companies

Few prominent players operating in the varicella zoster infection treatments industry includes:

• Apotex
• Bausch Health
• Bio-Rad Laboratories
• Changchun BCHT Biotechnology
• GlaxoSmithKline
• Glenmark Pharmaceuticals
• Kamada
• Merck & Co.
• Mylan
• Novartis
• Pfizer
• Sandoz
• Santa Cruz Biotechnology
• Sinovac
• SK Chemicals
• Teva Pharmaceuticals
   
• GlaxoSmithKline leads the varicella zoster virus infection treatment market with a share of 15% in 2024 with its recombinant vaccine technologies, offering high efficacy and long-term protection. Its focus on adult immunization, strategic global partnerships, and strong distribution networks make it a preferred choice for healthcare systems worldwide. GlaxoSmithKline’s commitment to innovation and personalized care models enhances its influence across both developed and emerging markets.
   
• Pfizer drives accessibility and scale in the varicella zoster virus infection treatment market through its global vaccine programs and strong clinical support. Its affordability, widespread distribution, and integration with telehealth platforms make it a key player in large-scale immunization efforts.
   
• Merck & Co. maintains a strong position with its legacy vaccine formulations and diversified antiviral pipeline. Its emphasis on immunization, combined with advanced research and development capabilities and scalable delivery systems, supports its leadership in the market. Merck’s strategic investments in biologics and digital health integration further strengthen its role in long-term disease prevention.
   
• Teva Pharmaceuticals plays a vital role by offering cost-effective generic antivirals such as acyclovir and valacyclovir. Its affordability and broad availability support treatment access in price-sensitive regions. Teva’s strategic focus on expanding its antiviral portfolio and partnerships with healthcare providers positions it as a reliable supplier in both public and private sectors.
   

Varicella Zoster Virus Infection Treatment Market News

• In April 2023, GlaxoSmithKline launched Shingrix in India, expanding access to its recombinant herpes zoster vaccine with over 90% efficacy. The launch supported broader adult immunization coverage and strengthened GlaxoSmithKline’s presence in emerging markets.
   
• In January 2022, Pfizer and BioNTech entered a global collaboration to develop the first mRNA-based shingles vaccine, combining Pfizer’s antigen expertise with BioNTech’s mRNA platform. The partnership aimed to accelerate innovation in herpes zoster prevention and expand Pfizer’s vaccine portfolio.
   
• In November 2021, Kamada acquired four FDA-approved plasma-derived hyperimmune products from Saol Therapeutics, including VARIZIG for post-exposure prophylaxis of varicella zoster virus. Kamada expanded its commercial portfolio to six products and added eight new international markets, primarily in the MENA region.
   

The varicella zoster virus infection treatment market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates and forecast in terms of revenue in USD Million from 2021 - 2034 for the following segments:

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Market, By Treatment Type

• Antiviral therapy
  • Acyclovir
  • Valacyclovir
  • Famciclovir
  • Other antiviral therapies
• Corticosteroids and anti-inflammatory agents
• Vaccines         
• Other treatment types           

Market, By Indication

• Varicella (chicken pox)
• Herpes zoster (shingles)
• Other indications

Market, By Age Group

• Paediatrics
• Adults
• Geriatrics

Market, By Product Type

• Branded
• Generics

Market, By Route of Administration

• Oral
• Topical
• Injectables

Market, By End Use

• Hospitals and clinics
• Homecare settings
• Other end use

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Netherlands
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • Australia
  • South Korea
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
• Middle East and Africa
  • South Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE