Shingles vaccines can spare you a painful illness : NPR
NPR • • general
Key Points:
- Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus and can cause severe pain and blisters; about one-third of Americans will experience it in their lifetime, but vaccination can prevent much of the suffering.
- Though the vaccine is recommended for adults 50 and older, shingles can affect younger people, especially those under physical or emotional stress, or with chronic conditions like diabetes and asthma.
- Emerging research suggests the shingles vaccine may offer additional benefits, such as reducing inflammation, slowing biological aging, and potentially protecting against dementia.
- Early recognition of shingles symptoms—such as tingling, rash, or intense pain—and prompt antiviral treatment within the first few days is crucial for effectiveness and reducing complications.
- Some patients suffer from post-herpetic neuralgia, a condition of persistent nerve pain after shingles, which can significantly impact quality of life; new treatments may help manage this pain with fewer side effects.
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