Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a painful rash caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. While anyone who has had chickenpox can develop shingles, the condition is more common in older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems. Vaccination has become a crucial tool in preventing this debilitating disease. Here we explore some essential questions and answers regarding shingles and its vaccine.
What is shingles?
Shingles is a viral infection that results in a painful rash, often appearing as a single stripe of blisters on one side of the body. It is caused by the reactivation of the
varicella-zoster virus, which remains dormant in the body after a person has recovered from chickenpox. Though it is not life-threatening, shingles can cause severe pain and complications, such as postherpetic neuralgia, which is persistent nerve pain even after the rash has cleared.
Who is at risk for shingles?
Shingles can occur in anyone who has had chickenpox, but certain factors increase the risk. These include being over the age of 50, having a weakened immune system due to conditions like HIV/AIDS or cancer, undergoing treatments like chemotherapy, or taking immunosuppressive drugs. Stress and trauma can also be triggers.How can shingles be prevented?
The most effective way to prevent shingles is through vaccination. There are two vaccines available for preventing shingles:
Zostavax and
Shingrix. Shingrix is the preferred vaccine, as it has been shown to be more effective in preventing the disease and its associated complications.
What is the Shingrix vaccine?
Shingrix is a recombinant, non-live vaccine that is administered in two doses, with the second dose given 2 to 6 months after the first. It is recommended for adults aged 50 and older, regardless of whether they remember having had chickenpox. Clinical trials have shown that Shingrix is over 90% effective at preventing shingles and postherpetic neuralgia.Who should get vaccinated?
The
CDC recommends that healthy adults aged 50 and older receive the Shingrix vaccine, even if they have had shingles before or received the Zostavax vaccine. It is particularly important for those in this age group to be vaccinated because the risk of complications increases with age.
Are there any side effects of the shingles vaccine?
Like any vaccine, Shingrix can cause side effects, though they are generally mild. Common side effects include pain at the injection site, muscle pain, fatigue, headache, shivering, fever, and upset stomach. These symptoms typically resolve within a few days. Severe allergic reactions are rare.Can you still get shingles after vaccination?
While vaccination significantly reduces the risk of developing shingles, it is still possible to get the disease after being vaccinated. However, in such cases, the symptoms are usually less severe, and the risk of complications like postherpetic neuralgia is reduced.How effective is the shingles vaccine?
Shingrix is highly effective and provides strong protection against shingles and its complications. Studies have shown that it is more than 90% effective in adults aged 50 and older and remains effective for at least four years after vaccination. The vaccine's efficacy is consistent across age groups, including those in their 70s and 80s.
What should I do if I develop shingles symptoms?
If you suspect you have shingles, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly. Early treatment with antiviral medications can help speed up recovery and reduce the risk of complications. It's also important to avoid contact with vulnerable individuals, such as pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems, to prevent spreading the virus.In summary, shingles is a preventable disease with the availability of effective vaccines such as Shingrix. Being informed about the benefits and
side effects of the vaccine, understanding who should be vaccinated, and recognizing the importance of early treatment are crucial steps in managing shingles risk.
