Contents
Can Vaccines Really Prevent Shingles?
Published: Feb 08, 2024
Shingles, a painful skin condition caused by the reactivation of a virus, can be prevented with vaccines. This article explores the available vaccines and their effectiveness in stopping shingles before it starts.
Understanding Shingles
Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. After someone recovers from chickenpox, the virus can stay dormant in their body and reactivate later as shingles. Shingles are known for causing painful skin rashes and can lead to complications like postherpetic neuralgia, a persistent pain condition.
The Role of Vaccines
Vaccines are a powerful tool in preventing shingles and reducing its severity if it does occur. Two types of vaccines are available: the recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV) and the zoster vaccine live (ZVL). RZV is preferred for most individuals due to its higher efficacy and longer-lasting protection. ZVL, although less effective, is still used in countries where RZV is not available.
Who Should Get Vaccinated?
It's recommended that all adults over the age of 50 receive the shingles vaccine, particularly the RZV. For those who are immunocompromised or have specific health conditions, vaccination is advised even earlier, starting at age 19. This proactive step can significantly decrease the risk of developing shingles and its complications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus.
The recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV) is more effective than the live zoster vaccine (ZVL).
Adults over 50 and immunocompromised individuals should get vaccinated.
It reduces the risk of shingles and its complications.
Key Takeaways
Vaccination is a crucial step in preventing shingles, especially in older adults and those with weakened immune systems.
References
- Weinberg A, Levin MJ. VZV T cell-mediated immunity. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2010; 342:341.
- Oxman MN, Levin MJ, Johnson GR, et al. A vaccine to prevent herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia in older adults. N Engl J Med 2005; 352:2271.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?