Herpes Zoster Vaccine
(Shingles Vaccine)
What Is Herpes Zoster?
Herpes zoster , also known as shingles, is a viral infection. It is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox in children. After a child has recovered from chickenpox, the virus lies dormant in the body. The virus can be stimulated later in life, typically at age 60 and older. It is revived as the shingles virus.
The virus re-emerges as shingles for unknown reasons. Suspected causes include stress or a weakened immune system. It is typically only revived once with only one bout of symptoms. More than one episode can occur. It is a common illness in the US.
The virus that causes shingles can be spread to people who have not yet had chickenpox. These people would get chickenpox, not shingles.
The most common symptoms of shingles include:
- Painful, itchy skin that turns into a rash
- A rash of red, painful blisters
- Rash often occurs only on one side of the body
- Blisters that break open, then scab over
- Fever, headache, chills
- Abdominal discomfort
Shingles and its symptoms typically get better over time. Medicine may be given to reduce pain. Antiviral medicines, like acyclovir , may be given to help the symptoms go away faster.
Possible complications include blindness, deafness, paralysis of the face, loss of taste, or infection. While rare, nerve pain may last for years.
What Is Herpes Zoster Vaccine?
This vaccine is a live, weakened form of the chickenpox virus. It is given as a shot under the skin.
Who Should Get Vaccinated and When?
Adults aged 60 and older may need the vaccine. One dose is typically given.
What Are the Risks Associated With the Herpes Zoster Vaccine?
- Common, minor side effects: fever and local soreness
- Less common, moderate side effects: red skin, swelling, or itching at the injection site, headache
- Severe complications: anaphylaxis
Who Should Not Get Vaccinated?
You should not get the vaccine if you:
- Have a compromised immune systems due to medicines, including cancer treatment
- Have HIV or AIDS
- Have tuberculosis
- Have an allergy to gelatin or neomycin
- Are or may be pregnant
What Other Ways Can Shingles Be Prevented Besides Vaccination?
If you have never had chickenpox, you cannot get shingles. However, you may be stricken with a severe case of chickenpox. If you had chickenpox, you are at risk for shingles. This is because the virus stays in your body. Getting the vaccine can reduce your risk.
What Happens in the Event of an Outbreak?
Shingles can be passed to others. It causes chickenpox in people who have not had the disease or the vaccine. These people should get the chickenpox vaccine .
WHERE CAN I GET MORE INFORMATION?
American Academy of Dermatology
http://www.aad.org/
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
http://www.ninds.nih.gov/
References:
A look at each vaccine: shingles vaccine. The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia website. Available at: http://www.chop.edu/consumer/jsp/division/generic.jsp. Accessed February 4, 2007.
Shingles disease: questions and answers. US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Available at: http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd-vac/shingles/dis-faqs.htm. Accessed February 4, 2007.
Last reviewed November 2009 by David L. Horn, MD, FACP
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Copyright © 2007 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.