Ever wondered if you’re at risk for shingles or if a shingles vaccine is right for you? Shingles is a painful rash caused by the chickenpox virus. Anyone who’s had chickenpox can get shingles.
As we age, our immune systems weaken, making us more likely to get shingles. This guide will explain what shingles is, why getting vaccinated is important, and who should consider the shingles vaccine. Let’s find out if you should protect yourself against shingles.
Understanding Shingles
First things first, what exactly is shingles? Shingles is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus—the same virus that causes chickenpox. If you’ve had chickenpox, this virus lies dormant in your nervous system and can reactivate later in life as shingles.
Often, shingles starts as a painful rash that can occur anywhere on your body, but most commonly appears as a stripe of blisters wrapping around either side of your torso. The pain, which can be quite severe, is often the first symptom to appear.
Other symptoms include fever, headache, and fatigue.
What’s more concerning are the complications that can arise from shingles, such as postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a condition where the pain persists long after the rash has healed. This can significantly impact your quality of life, making it important to consider preventive measures.
The Shingles Vaccine
And this brings us to the shingles vaccine. The shingles vaccine, often referred to as the Zoster vaccine, is your best defense against this painful condition.
But who should get vaccinated?
Healthy Adults 50 Years and Older
The CDC says all healthy adults aged 50 and older should get the shingles vaccine. This age group is more at risk for shingles and its problems, so getting the vaccine is important to stay safe.
Adults 19 Years and Older with Weakened Immune Systems
People aged 19 and older with weak immune systems should think about getting vaccinated.
This includes those with health issues or treatments that weaken their immune system, like HIV, cancer treatments, organ transplants, or autoimmune diseases. These people are more likely to get shingles and have serious problems.
Additional Considerations
Previously Had Shingles: If you’ve had shingles before, you should still get the vaccine to avoid getting it again.
Got the Old Zoster Vaccine (ZVL): If you had the older Zostavax vaccine, you should still get the Shingrix vaccine for better protection.
Chronic Health Conditions: People with long-term health issues like diabetes, kidney disease, or lung diseases should get the vaccine, as long as it’s safe for them.
Who Should Not Get the Shingles Vaccine
Severe Allergic Reaction: Individuals who have had a severe allergic reaction to any component of the shingles vaccine or a previous dose should avoid receiving Shingrix.
Pregnant or Breastfeeding Women: There is limited data on the safety of the shingles vaccine in pregnant or breastfeeding women, so they should consult their healthcare provider for guidance.
Currently Experiencing Shingles: Those who are currently experiencing an active shingles outbreak should wait until the rash has cleared up before getting vaccinated.
Conclusion
In short, shingles is a serious illness that can cause a lot of pain and problems, especially as we get older. The shingles vaccine works well and is recommended for adults over 50. It’s safe and effective, so there’s no reason to skip it.
If you’re 50 or older, talk to your doctor about getting the shingles vaccine. Your future self will be glad you did.
