Herpes zoster (Shingles) is not a common infection. But once you get herpes zoster, you can never forget it. It starts with a burning and tingling sensation in a part of the body, followed by the appearance of rashes, redness, and blisters. There may be fever and tiredness along with that. In some people, the pain may become excruciating and unbearable, disturbing sleep. After the episode of shingles, the pain may remain for a long time (post-herpetic neuralgia)
Herpes is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which causes chicken pox. After chicken pox, these viruses remain in our body and activate after many years to cause shingles. Around 10 % of those who had chicken pox in the past develop herpes. Patients with chronic lung disease, diabetes, asthma, chronic kidney disease, or inflammatory bowel disease and older adults aged ≥ 50 years are at least two times more likely to experience herpes zoster or shingles.
Two doses of the herpes zoster vaccine, taken 2-6 months apart, can effectively prevent herpes zoster. The vaccine is given to adults over 50 and is more than 90 % effective. It is beneficial for preventing shingles (herpes zoster) and post-herpetic neuralgia. It is currently available and approved in India for adults above 50. Speak to your doctor whether you require a shingles vaccine.