Shingles vaccine debate

September 9, 2009 TREATMENT: Shingles is often treated with antiviral medication to reduce the severity and duration of the symptoms. They work best if started within the first three days of the rash. Doctors also sometimes recommend steroids to reduce pain, swelling and the risk of developing post-herpetic neuralgia (Source: American Academy of Family Physicians).

PREVENTION: If you have had chickenpox, you can't catch shingles from someone infected with it. However, you can catch chickenpox from someone with shingles if you come in direct contact with the blisters. Last year, the CDC made an official recommendation that adults 60 and older receive the vaccine against shingles. The CDC does not recommend the vaccine if you:

Have ever had a life-threatening allergic reaction to gelatin or the antibiotic neomycin

Have a weakened immune system because of HIV/AIDS or any other disease that affects the immune system; treatment with immuno-compromising drugs like steroids; cancer treatment like radiation or chemotherapy; or a history of cancer affecting the bone marrow or lymphatic system

Have active, untreated tuberculosis

Are pregnant, might be pregnant, or plan to become pregnant within three months after getting the vaccine

Are moderately or severely ill or have a temperature of 101.3 degrees Fahrenheit or higher

Although the CDC says the risk of the shingles vaccine causing serious harm is extremely small, about one in three people experience redness, soreness, swelling or itching at the injection site. In addition, about one in 70 people experience a headache after receiving the vaccine. People who have had shingles can receive the vaccine to prevent future occurrences of the condition.

? For More Information, Contact:

Michael J. Muszynski, M.D.
Florida State University College of Medicine
Orlando, FL Regional Campus
(407) 835-4103
Michael.muszynski@med.fsu.edu