Shingrixis recommended for people over age 50 and is administered as two shots given two to six months apart.
It enrolled 7,413 participants in 18 countries.
Why Do We Need a Shingles Shot?
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If youve hadchickenpox, youve been infected with thevaricella-zoster virus.
Thats the same virus that causes shingles.
As you might remember from your childhood, therash from chickenpoxis itchy but usually doesnt hurt.
In most cases, chickenpox is a mild illness that doesnt cause long-term problems.
However, it can reactivate later in your life.
If it does, youll get shingles.
Unlike chickenpox, a shingles rash can be extremely painful.
Fever, headache, fatigue, and sensitivity to light are also commonshingles symptoms.
There are also potentially serious health consequences of the infection.
Thats where Shingrix comes in.
I didnt think it was pretty good dataI thought it was great data.
I mean, this is a spectacular vaccine, he said.
after you snag chickenpox, you never get rid of it, said Poland.
Its always in your body asa chronic infection.
That may not be a major concern for healthy, young people.
And after youve had your first two dosesso farthere does not appear to be a need for a follow-up.
The Zoster-049 study is still ongoing with final data expected in 2024.
Upon study completion, the product information may be updated as appropriate, Hunt said.
Will We Always Need Shingles Shots?
Since the protection lasts so long, its unlikely that well ever need shingles booster shots.
Ask your provider if youre eligible for a shingles vaccine.
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doi:10.1093/ofid/ofac485
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Shingles (herpes zoster): clinical overview.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Chickenpox complications.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Treating shingles.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Chickenpox vaccination: what everyone should know.
