Zoster Immunisation: Why Adults Over 50 Should Get Vaccinated
As we age, our immune system undergoes changes, making us more susceptible to certain diseases. One such disease that affects older adults is shingles, also known as herpes zoster. Shingles is a viral illness that causes a painful rash, which usually lasts for several weeks. It is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox in childhood, known as varicella-zoster virus.
In recent years, the incidence of shingles among adults over 50 has been on the rise. This is why zoster immunisation, also known as shingles vaccine, has become an essential tool in protecting adults from this debilitating disease. In this article, we will explore why zoster immunisation is important for adults over 50.
Who Should Get Zoster Immunisation?
Adults over the age of 50 are at an increased risk of developing shingles compared to younger people. Zoster immunisation is recommended for all adults over the age of 50, including those who have previously had shingles or received the shingles vaccine. Even if you’ve had shingles, you should still get vaccinated to reduce the risk of getting it again.
How Effective Is Zoster Immunisation?
Clinical trials have shown that zoster immunisation is highly effective in preventing shingles. Studies have shown that the vaccine reduces the incidence of shingles by up to 90%. Even if you do get shingles after being vaccinated, the symptoms are usually much milder, and the risk of developing post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) – a painful complication of shingles – is significantly reduced.
Are There Any Side Effects Of Zoster Immunisation?
Zoster immunisation is generally safe and well-tolerated. The most common side effects are mild and include redness, swelling, and pain at the injection site. Some people may experience headache, fatigue, fever or muscle pain after vaccination. These side effects are usually self-limiting and disappear within a few days.
Why Is Zoster Immunisation Important?
One of the key benefits of zoster immunisation is that it can prevent shingles, which can be a painful and distressing illness, especially in older adults. Shingles can also cause long-term complications such as PHN, which can last for months or even years. By getting vaccinated, you can reduce your risk of developing shingles and its complications, thus protecting your overall health and well-being.
Another benefit of zoster immunisation is that it can prevent the transmission of the varicella-zoster virus to others. If you’ve had chickenpox in childhood, you may carry the virus in your body for years. This virus can be reactivated later in life, causing shingles. However, people with shingles can also transmit the varicella-zoster virus to others who have not had chickenpox or the vaccine. By getting vaccinated, you can protect others around you, especially people who may be at higher risk of developing complications from shingles.
In conclusion, zoster immunisation is an important preventive measure for adults over 50. By getting vaccinated, you can reduce your risk of developing shingles and its complications, protect others around you, and maintain your overall health and well-being. If you’re over 50 and haven’t been vaccinated, talk to your healthcare provider about getting zoster immunisation. Prevention is always better than cure!
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