By Teresa Alasio, MD
Shingles is a painful and often debilitating condition and affects nearly one million Americans each year, primarily targeting older adults and those with weakened immune systems. It’s caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox. After an active chickenpox infection, the virus remains dormant in the body and can later reemerge as shingles. Here’s what you need to know about shingles, its risks, and why vaccination is key to prevention.
What is Shingles?
Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, typically begins with pain, tingling, or itching on one side of the body or face. This discomfort is often followed by a red, blistering rash that can be intensely painful. The condition can vary in severity, but even mild cases are uncomfortable, and more severe cases can lead to complications like postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a long-lasting nerve pain that can persist for months or even years after the rash heals. For some, the effects of shingles are life-altering, impacting quality of life and daily activities.
Who is at Risk?
Before the chickenpox vaccine was introduced in the US in 1995, around 4 million Americans were infected with chickenpox. Since then, the chickenpox vaccine is recommended as part of a child’s routine vaccinations, and the number of people infected with chickenpox in the United States has decreased to about 12,000 per year. While shingles can affect anyone who has had chickenpox, the risk increases significantly with age. Roughly one in three people will develop shingles at some point in their lives, with most cases occurring in adults over 50. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that up to 25% of older adults who contract shingles will experience PHN, making the consequences of the disease especially challenging for seniors.
Individuals with compromised immune systems, including those undergoing cancer treatment, organ transplants, or living with chronic diseases, are also at an elevated risk of shingles and its complications.
The Role of the Shingles Vaccine
The best line of defense against shingles is vaccination. The CDC recommends the shingles vaccine, known as Shingrix, for adults aged 50 and older, as well as younger adults with compromised immune systems. Shingrix is administered in two doses, given two to six months apart, and studies show it to be over 90% effective in preventing shingles and its complications.
For those who have already had shingles, vaccination is still recommended. Contracting shingles does not make you immune, and the vaccine has been shown to reduce the chances of recurrence. Additionally, individuals who previously received Zostavax, the original shingles vaccine, are advised to get Shingrix as it offers more effective and longer-lasting protection.
Why Vaccination is Important
Vaccination not only reduces your chances of developing shingles, but it also significantly lowers the risk of experiencing serious complications like PHN. With aging, immune function naturally declines, leaving older adults particularly vulnerable to the virus. Shingrix has proven highly effective, even in those over 70, giving older adults a chance to avoid the pain and potential long-term effects associated with shingles.
Moreover, vaccination benefits not only the individual but also the healthcare system. By preventing shingles, vaccines reduce healthcare visits, hospitalizations, and costs associated with managing the disease and its complications.
Who Should Avoid the Vaccine?
While Shingrix is considered safe and effective for most adults, there are some exceptions. Individuals with severe allergies to any of the vaccine’s ingredients, those who have tested positive for active shingles, or individuals who are currently pregnant should avoid the vaccine. It’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure the vaccine is appropriate for you.
How to Get Vaccinated
Shingrix is available at most pharmacies, doctor’s offices, and community health clinics. For those over 65, Medicare Part D generally covers the vaccine, and many private insurance plans also offer coverage for those over 50. Check with your provider to determine your eligibility and any costs that might apply.
The Takeaway
Shingles is a preventable disease that can have severe, lasting impacts. Getting vaccinated with Shingrix offers effective, long-term protection and is the best way to avoid both the pain of shingles and the risk of complications like PHN. If you’re over 50 or have a health condition that weakens your immune system, talk to your healthcare provider about getting vaccinated. Protecting yourself against shingles isn’t just about avoiding a painful rash; it’s about safeguarding your quality of life and health for years to come.
The information contained herein is for educational purposes only and not meant as a substitute for medical advice. If you have a specific medical concern, please consult your medical provider.
Dr. Teresa Alasio is Medical Director and Owner of Intentional Self Aesthetics, a medical Intentional located in Downtown New Canaan. She is also a resident of New Canaan.
