With so much press surrounding the COVID-19 vaccinations, it’s all too easy to lose focus on the other important vaccinations for older adults. But there’s one specifically that deserves some time in the public eye: the shingles vaccine.
Shingles is an infection caused by the same virus that triggers chickenpox. If a person has had chickenpox, they are in danger of developing shingles in the future. This is because the virus remains dormant in nerve tissue around the brain and spinal cord for years before potentially reactivating.
While not life-threatening, shingles can be extremely painful and trigger numerous other complicated effects, such as:
Additionally, long-term side effects can include skin infections, eye infections (that may result in vision loss), stability or hearing issues, facial paralysis, encephalitis, and others.
There are a variety of risk factors, most commonly age. Shingles is most widespread in individuals 50 and over, with the risk increasing as they age. In addition, people who meet the following criteria are at an increased risk for shingles:
Thankfully, a highly effective vaccine is accessible and advised for people age 50 and older, and individuals age 19 and older with a compromised immune system. The CDC suggests the Shingrix vaccine, a 2-dose injection that is more than 90% effective in seniors.
Complications from Shingrix are minimal – much more tolerable than the effects of shingles itself. The most common symptoms include mild or moderate tenderness in the arm, redness, and inflammation at the injection site. Some other known effects include nausea, fatigue, muscle pain, shivering, stomach pain, or fever. The issues usually go away within 2-3 days, and may be eased with over-the-counter remedies or as directed by the doctor.
The doctor should always be consulted in the event that you think that you or someone you love has shingles, but especially if any of the following apply:
Morning Glory Home Care, a dedicated provider of home care and dementia care in Belleville, IL and nearby areas, is on hand to aid anyone with shingles or those interested in steering clear of the condition through:
Call us at 618-667-8400 to learn more about the importance of senior vaccines and our award-winning senior care services.
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