Shingles is an painful skin rashes due to inflammation of nervous system that cause a severe burning sensation which can be detrimental to one’s self-confidence. Also, a more troubling concern is the complications from the disease that are common among patients over 50 years old. Aside from pain along the nervous system, shingles can cause severe inflammation to the brain and lungs. So, it is prudent to receive shingles vaccination beforehand, to prevent the disease and reduce its impact.
What Is Shingles Vaccine?
Shingles vaccine does not use live virus. Instead, this Recombinant Subunit Zoster Vaccine (RZV) uses specific protein called glycoprotein E. This makes it suitable for patients who have impaired or weakened immune system. The efficacy of RZV against shingles is 97.2% in adults over 50 years old, and over 91.3% in those older than 70. The vaccine is also able to prevent the effect of Postherpetic Neuralgia (PHN) by 91.2% and 88.2% in people ages over 50 and 70 respectively.
How Many Shingles Injections Do I Need?
You will need 2 doses of RZV injection into the muscle of the upper arm area.
- People over 50 years old should receive each shot 2 – 6 months apart.
- People over 18 years old who are immunocompromised, under steroid treatment or chemotherapy, should receive each shot 1 – 2 months apart.
Who Should Get Shingles Vaccine?
- Adults over 50 years old.
- Adults over 18 years old who have a weakened immune system or are at risk of being immunocompromised.
Side Effects of Shingles Vaccine
- Itchiness, aching and reddish swelling around the injection site.
- Headache, muscles pain, shiver, fever,
- Stomachache, nausea.
- You should see your doctor immediately if you have any of the following symptoms: rashes, swollen face and neck, an elevated heart rate, dizziness, weakness, or difficulty breathing.
What Are the Advantages of Shingles Vaccine?
- Reduction in the risk and severity of the disease, and lessening the pain from the infection.
- No need to be tested for immunity before vaccination.
- Can be administered along with other vaccines such as pneumonia and influenza vaccines.
* Currently, after 10 years of research, it is found that the efficacy of the vaccine remains as high as 89% and it is expected that the effectiveness will last for 20 years. There is yet to be any recommendation about a booster shot.
Limitation of Shingles Vaccination
- Prohibited for children under 18 years old.
- Prohibited for pregnant women or breastfeeding moms.
- Prohibited as a protection against chickenpox.
If I Had the Disease Before, When Should I Get Shingles Vaccine?
Shingles can occur repeatedly. So, you need to protect yourself by getting vaccinated at least 6 months after your previous recovery.
Is Shingles Contagious?
Shingles can be transmitted through touch, as the fluid from the blisters contains the virus that can spread to another person.
Doctor Specialized in Shingles Treatment
Dr. Chayapon Cheetanom, Internist, Bangkok Hospital
Click here for appointment
Hospital Equipped for Shingles Vaccination
Vaccine Clinic at Bangkok Hospital is well-prepared to offer shingles vaccination to help reduce the risk and severity of the disease. Our team of specialists and multidisciplinary professionals is ready to provide diligent care for our patients.
