Abstract: Background: Pediatric hospitalizations for varicella and herpes zoster in Brazil reflect socioeconomic disparities in access to healthcare. This study analyzes differences in hospitalization rates, costs, and outcomes between public and private sectors, considering demographic and regional factors. These data aim to inform policies for equitable healthcare and improved immunization strategies. Materials and Methods: Data from the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS) between 2007 and 2024 were analyzed. Hospitalizations for children aged 0 to 14 years were categorized by age, gender, race, region, and type of care (elective or urgent). Statistical analyses, including ANOVA and t-tests, were performed to assess differences in hospitalization rates, costs, length of stay, and mortality across groups........
Key Word: Pediatrics, varicella, herpes zoster, public health, healthcare disparities, vaccination.
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