Shingles vaccine recommended for people 60 and over
Posted Oct 15 2008 9:04pm
Herpes zoster, more commonly known as shingles is an outbreak of a rash or blisters on the skin that is caused by the the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox.
It begins with a burning or tingling pain in one location on the body and is followed by an outbreak of blisters similar to chicken pox. It is very painful and it often occurs in a pattern around the wasitline. Anyone who has had chickenpox is at risk for shingles.
Antiviral drugs can reduce the symptoms of an attack, but an important step in prevention of shingles is the vaccine Zostavax.
Herpes zoster, more commonly known as shingles is an outbreak of a rash or blisters on the skin that is caused by the the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox.
It begins with a burning or tingling pain in one location on the body and is followed by an outbreak of blisters similar to chicken pox. It is very painful and it often occurs in a pattern around the wasitline. Anyone who has had chickenpox is at risk for shingles.
Antiviral drugs can reduce the symptoms of an attack, but an important step in prevention of shingles is the vaccine Zostavax.
Earlier this year, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommended that Americans age 60 and over receive the Zostavax vaccine to prevent this painful disease.
However, the vaccine is in short supply and can be expensive, but it is covered by most insurance including Medicare Part D.
Tags: herpes zoster, shingles, shingles vaccine, ZostavaxShare This