You’ve heard of shingles, but do you know how common this painful illness is? One in 3 adults in the US will develop shingles (herpes zoster) during their lifetimes. This viral infection causes a painful, blistering skin rash. Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. You may be at increased risk of shingles if you previously had a chickenpox infection, at any stage in life, or if you are older than age 50.
The good news is that most shingles infections in older adults can be prevented through a very effective 2-dose vaccine. The shingles vaccine is recommended for all adults over age 50 and all immunocompromised adults over age 19. Vaccination is recommended for adults over age 50 regardless of if you have had chickenpox before. Vaccinated people who do get shingles have a lower chance of experiencing long-term pain. Learn more about shingles vaccine recommendations. The vaccine is available at most pharmacies and some doctor’s offices. You can locate a shingles vaccine near you using an online vaccine locator tool.
Take time this Shingles Awareness Week to work with your healthcare provider to determine if the shingles vaccine is right for you.
Visit the Douglas County Health Department on our webpage for more information.