Why is it Important to Get Vaccinated Against Shingles?
Shingles is a painful rash that affects your whole body. It’s caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which can infect you if you have chickenpox or another infection before adulthood. The shingles vaccine can protect people who are at high risk of developing this serious illness, which could lead to lifelong pain and disability if not treated early on. Keep reading to find out how to get the shingles vaccine at our pharmacy in Bedford.
What causes shingles?
Shingles occur when the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) reactivates after a period of dormancy. The VZV can lie dormant in your body for years, and then it can cause shingles when it reactivates.
Shingles cause a painful rash on one side of the body: typically on the jawline, temple, or forehead. Can spread or worsen with HIV/AIDS or diabetes type 2.
The shingles vaccine and how it works
The shingles vaccine is a live, weakened form of the VZV virus. It’s given as an injection to people over 60 years old who have had chickenpox. This can also be given to people with weakened immune systems, such as cancer patients or those taking certain medications that affect how their bodies fight off viruses.
The vaccine works by boosting your immune system, so it’s more likely to fight off the virus and prevent you from getting shingles again in future infections.
Who should get the shingles vaccine?
In the United Kingdom, the shingles vaccine is recommended for adults aged 70 and 78 years old. People who were previously eligible for the vaccine but missed out on it are also eligible to receive it until their 80th birthday. The vaccine is also available to people aged 50 to 65 years old under the National Shingles Vaccination Programmehttps://www.gov.uk/government/collections/shingles-vaccination-programme.
It’s important to note that the shingles vaccine is not recommended for everyone. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before getting the shingles vaccine. Not recommended for those with prior allergic reactions, weakened immune system due to HIV/cancer, or undergoing cancer treatment.
The shingles vaccine can lower your risk of developing postherpetic neuralgia (PHN)
The shingles vaccine can also help prevent postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a painful complication of shingles.
Postherpetic neuralgia is a neurological condition that occurs when the nerves in your spine or face become inflamed after you’ve had chickenpox or shingles rash. It can last for years or even decades after the virus has healed.
High-risk factors for PHN from adult chicken pox include: living with an infected person, close contact with a child with chicken pox, pregnancy, cancer, immunosuppression, being over 60, and certain medical conditions like diabetes type II.
Is it worth having the shingles vaccine?
Yes, it is generally considered worthwhile to receive the shingles vaccine. The vaccine can significantly reduce the risk of developing shingles and can also lessen the severity of symptoms if a person does develop the condition. The NHS recommends that adults over the age of 60 get the shingles vaccine.
How often do you need to get the vaccine?
Shingles vaccine effectiveness decreases over time. Protection varies, booster shot not certain. The UK recommends a single dose.
It’s important to consult with your pharmacist or GP to determine if and when you should get the shingles vaccine, as the recommendations may vary based on individual factors such as medical history and current health status.
Where can I get the shingles vaccine in Bedford?
Book your vaccination online or visit C&H Barton Pharmacy to get your shingles vaccine in Bedford and stay protected.
This blog post was written on behalf of C & H Barton Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor