Shingles Vaccine: Side Effects and More Information

What Is the Shingles Vaccine?

The Shingles vaccine is a medical advancement designed to prevent shingles, a painful condition caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox, according to the CDC. They note that shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection that manifests as a painful skin rash with blisters, typically occurring on one side of the body. This condition arises when the varicella-zoster virus, which remains dormant in the nerve tissues after a person has recovered from chickenpox, reactivates later in life. The risk of developing shingles increases with age, and it can lead to severe complications, including postherpetic neuralgia, a condition characterized by persistent nerve pain even after the rash has healed, according to the CDC.

The origins of the shingles vaccine date back to efforts to combat the varicella-zoster virus more effectively, according to the CDC. They note that researchers developed the vaccine by using a weakened form of the virus to stimulate the immune system without causing the disease itself. The first shingles vaccine, Zostavax, was approved in 2006, followed by the more effective Shingrix in 2017. These vaccines have significantly reduced the incidence of shingles and its associated complications, providing a powerful tool in the fight against this painful condition.

Who Should Get the Shingles Vaccine?

The shingles vaccine is an essential preventative measure for many individuals, particularly as they age, according to the CDC. This section will outline the specific groups of people who are strongly encouraged to receive the vaccine, helping to reduce their risk of developing shingles and its potentially severe complications.

Adults Aged 50 and Older

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults aged 50 and older receive the Shingrix vaccine, regardless of whether they have had shingles before. The risk of developing shingles and its complications, such as postherpetic neuralgia, increases with age. Even individuals who have already had shingles can experience a recurrence, making the vaccine a critical tool in ongoing prevention, according to the CDC. Those who have previously received the older Zostavax vaccine are also advised to get the Shingrix vaccine for more robust protection.

Individuals with Weakened Immune Systems

Certain groups, including individuals with weakened immune systems due to medical conditions or treatments such as chemotherapy, may also benefit from the shingles vaccine. It is essential for these individuals to consult their healthcare providers to determine the best timing and suitability of the vaccine. By ensuring that those at higher risk are vaccinated, we can significantly reduce the incidence and impact of shingles across the population.

Who Should Not Get the Shingles Vaccine?

While the Shingles vaccine is highly recommended for many individuals, there are certain circumstances in which it should be avoided, according to the CDC. They note that if you have allergies to any parts of the vaccine, such as gelatin or the antibiotic neomycin, you should not receive the shingles vaccine. Additionally, if you have other allergies, it is important to inform your doctor or pharmacist before getting Shingrix.

If you currently have shingles or another illness, it is advisable to wait until you are well before getting the vaccine, according to the CDC. Similarly, they note that if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should wait until you have stopped breastfeeding to get vaccinated.

In the case that you happen to test negative for VZV, the virus that causes chickenpox, you should not get the shingles vaccine, according to the CDC. If you are older than 50, you likely have chickenpox even if you don't remember it, and the CDC does not recommend testing for this. However, if a blood test shows you've never had the childhood illness, you should get the chickenpox vaccine instead.

How Is the Shingles Vaccine Given?

The administration of the Shingles vaccine is a straightforward process, but understanding how it is given and what to expect can help individuals feel more prepared and confident, according to the CDC. They explain that the Shingles vaccine, specifically Shingrix, is given as a two-dose series. The first dose is followed by a second dose two to six months later to ensure optimal immunity.

The CDC notes that the vaccine works by stimulating the immune system to produce a robust response against the varicella-zoster virus, thereby reducing the risk of shingles and its complications. Clinical studies have shown that Shingrix provides strong protection against shingles for at least four years, and ongoing research suggests that its efficacy may last even longer. By adhering to the recommended vaccination schedule, individuals can significantly enhance their defense against this painful condition.

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Shingles Vaccine?

Understanding the potential side effects of the Shingles vaccine is essential for making an informed decision about vaccination. Some of the most common and less common side effects associated with the Shingrix vaccine, according to the CDC, include:

• Redness Around the Injection Site

• Headache

• Shivering

• Fever

• Stomach Pain

• Nausea

By being aware of these possible side effects, individuals can better prepare for their vaccination experience and take appropriate steps to manage any discomfort that may arise.