What are potential side effects of zoster vaccine?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have heard about the shingles vaccine and I am considering getting vaccinated. As a 60-year-old woman, I have heard that the risk of shingles increases with age, and I want to take steps to protect myself. Can you provide some information on the zoster vaccine, including who should consider getting vaccinated, its effectiveness, and any potential side effects?

Thanks.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

The shingles vaccine, also known as the zoster vaccine, is designed to prevent shingles (herpes zoster), a painful skin rash caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults aged 50 years and older consider getting vaccinated against shingles. The CDC also recommends routine vaccination for adults aged 60 years and older, regardless of whether they have had a prior episode of shingles. The zoster vaccine effectively reduces the risk of shingles and its complications in older adults. Studies have shown that the vaccine significantly reduces the risk of developing shingles and postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a painful condition that can occur after shingles. Even if vaccinated individuals develop shingles, they tend to have milder symptoms and shorter duration of illness than unvaccinated individuals. The most common side effects of the zoster vaccine include redness, pain, swelling, or itching at the injection site. Some people may experience mild side effects such as headache, fever, or fatigue. Serious side effects from the vaccine are rare but can include allergic reactions.

I hope this information will help you.

Thanks.