Shingles 101: Should You Get Vaccinated?

Did you know that the rate of shingles cases is on the rise? And nope, we’re not talking about the shingles on your home’s roof.

Shingles is an itchy, painful rash affecting about 30% of adults 50 and older. Shingles, or herpes zoster, are irritating blisters that become unsightly scabs within seven to 10 days. However, the virus can take up to four weeks to fully clear.

So, what are your chances of getting shingles, and how can you protect yourself? If you’re over 50, you should talk to your doctor about getting vaccinated.

Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about this virus and the shingles vaccine. 

How Do You Get Shingles?

Did you get chickenpox as a kid? That same virus, called the varicella-zoster virus, causes shingles. Only individuals who already have had chickenpox will get shingles. That’s because the virus stays dormant in your body. As you age, your immunity can decline, weakening your body’s natural defenses against the inactive virus. This is most likely to happen after you turn 50. 

Shingles Symptoms 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly one in three Americans will develop shingles at some point in their lives. The most common symptoms of shingles include:

• Red rash
• Fluid-filled blisters
• Intense itching
• Eventually, crusting blisters

These symptoms can start off mildly, increasing as the virus progresses. Pain is often the most intense during the first or second week. The rash is typically localized and appears on your torso or shoulders. Shingles can also develop on your back, hands, arms, legs, neck, face, and scalp.

Some people with shingles have also reported experiencing fevers, headaches, and hypersensitivity to light or touch. Prescription medication could be needed to alleviate all of these symptoms. 

Shingles Vaccine 

Vaccination against shingles is the best protection against this painful virus for older adults. In fact, the shingles vaccine is 90% effective in preventing the virus. The CDC highly recommends that all adults 50 and over get vaccinated.

People getting vaccinated will get two doses of Shingrix, two to six months apart. The most common side effects include redness, swelling, or tenderness at the injection site. Other side effects include stomach discomfort, muscle pain, headache, fever, and fatigue.

You should not get the vaccine if you are pregnant, currently have shingles, or ever had a severe allergic reaction to any component of the Shingrix vaccine.

Most private health insurance plans cover the Shingrix vaccine. Medicare Part D also covers shingles shots. If you don’t meet your deductible, you may have to pay around $325 to cover the cost of both shots. 

Need a Ride to the Doctor’s? 

Some older adults may feel uncomfortable driving or taking public transportation to their doctor’s appointments to get the shingles vaccine. Luckily, Visiting Angels’ Leominster, MA, caregivers can help. They can provide reliable transportation to all of your appointments. Our caregivers can also assist with meal planning and preparation, medication management, and light housekeeping.

To learn more, contact us today by calling 978-227-5263. We look forward to hearing from you!