Which of the following statements is true regarding varicella-containing vaccines?

The statement that the potency of herpes zoster vaccine (HZV) is greater than that of varicella vaccine is correct. This difference in potency is due to the fact that the herpes zoster vaccine is specifically designed to boost immunity against the varicella-zoster virus, which causes both chickenpox (varicella) and shingles (herpes zoster).

The varicella vaccine is used primarily to prevent chickenpox in children and generally contains a live attenuated strain of the virus. The herpes zoster vaccine, on the other hand, contains a higher dose of the same attenuated strain to more effectively stimulate the immune response in older adults, who are at a higher risk of developing shingles. This enhanced potency ensures that the zoster vaccine provides adequate protection against the reactivation of the virus that causes shingles.

Understanding this difference is crucial for healthcare professionals, as it impacts vaccination practices and recommendations for different age groups and populations at various risks for varicella and zoster infections.