Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus can remain dormant in the nerve cells and reactivate later in life, causing shingles. Shingles is characterized by a painful rash that usually appears on one side of the body. The risk of shingles increases with age, and it can cause complications such as post-herpetic neuralgia, which is a type of chronic nerve pain. The shingles vaccine is a way to reduce the risk of getting shingles or developing complications from the infection.
Dose
The shingles vaccine is given as a single injection, usually in the upper arm. The current vaccine available in the US is a two-dose series. The second dose is given 2 to 6 months after the first dose.
Why Shingles Vaccine?
- The shingles vaccine is recommended for adults aged 50 and older, even if they have had shingles before. The vaccine helps to reduce the risk of getting shingles, and if a person does get shingles, it can reduce the severity and duration of the illness.
- The vaccine also helps to reduce the risk of complications from shingles, such as post-herpetic neuralgia.
Dose Chart
The current vaccine available in the US is a two-dose series.
The first dose is recommended at age 50, and the second dose should be given 2 to 6 months later.
If a person has already had shingles, they should still get the vaccine to help prevent future outbreaks.
Age Requirement
The shingles vaccine is recommended for adults aged 50 and older. However, some people may need to wait to get the vaccine if they have certain health conditions or are taking certain medications. It is best to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if the vaccine is appropriate and safe for an individual.
Difference between Chickenpox & Shingles
Chickenpox and shingles are both caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Chickenpox is a highly contagious viral infection that usually occurs in children. It is characterized by a rash of itchy, fluid-filled blisters that can appear all over the body. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus can remain dormant in the nerve cells and reactivate later in life, causing shingles.
Shingles is characterized by a painful rash that usually appears on one side of the body and can last for several weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should get the shingles vaccine?
The shingles vaccine is recommended for adults aged 50 and older.
How effective is the shingles vaccine?
The shingles vaccine is about 90% effective in preventing shingles.
Can you get shingles if you've had the vaccine?
It is possible to get shingles after getting the vaccine, but the illness is usually milder and shorter in duration.
What are the side effects of the shingles vaccine?
The most common side effects of the shingles vaccine include soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site. Some people may also experience headache or fever.
Can the shingles vaccine be given to people with weakened immune systems?
The shingles vaccine may not be recommended for people with weakened immune systems. It is best to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if the vaccine is appropriate and safe for an individual.
How long does the shingles vaccine last?
The shingles vaccine is expected to provide protection for at least 5 years, but it may provide longer-lasting protection.