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Shingles


Shingles (Herpes zoster) is an extremely painful skin rash caused by the Varicella zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. In people who have had chickenpox, the virus is never fully cleared from the body; instead it remains dormant in the blood. But under stress, either physical or emotional, the virus
re-activates and a blister like eruption occurs along the involved nerve.
shingles

 

A single dose of Shingles Vaccine is indicated for adults 60 years of age and older. The vaccine may be given whether or not you have had a previous episode of Shingles.


Shingles Vaccine- Zostavax

A vaccine for shingles (Zostavax) was licensed in 2006. In clinical trials, the vaccine prevented shingles or reduced the symptoms in about half of people 60 years of age and older. It can also reduce the severe pain associated with Shingles. 

Someone with a minor illness, such as a cold may be immunized but anyone who is moderately or severely ill should usually wait until they recover before getting the vaccine. 

Common Side Effects:
- Redness, soreness, swelling, or itching at the site of the injection (about 1 person in 3)
- Headache (about 1 person in 70)
- No serious problems have been identified with shingles vaccine.

For more detailed information on shingles, click here.
Global Health Services, Inc.  8087 Cincinnati-Dayton Rd.  West Chester  OH  45069  513-777-8111