Shingles is a very painful disease that we have all heard of, and perhaps even seen. This disease, which is accompanied by blisters like shingles on one side of the body, accompanied by unbearable inflammation and pain, is medically called Herpes Zoster or Shingles. This disease often occurs as we age or when the body's immunity decreases. So, the Zoster Vaccine has been introduced to help us protect ourselves from this painful condition. Today, let's talk about everything about this vaccine.
What exactly is the Zoster Vaccine?
Simply put, the Zoster Vaccine is a vaccine that reduces the risk of developing Herpes Zoster, or Shingles. The most important thing to remember here is that this is not a treatment for shingles after it has occurred. This is a vaccine that is given before the disease develops, to protect against it.
Do you remember chickenpox as a child? The same virus that caused it is also the cause of this disease called 'shingles'. After the chickenpox has healed, the virus lies dormant in the nerve cells of our body. Years later, when our immune system weakens as we age or due to another illness, the dormant virus reawakens and causes these painful blisters.
What this vaccine does is remind our immune system of the virus again and train it to fight it. It's like training the army before a war. Then, if the virus tries to reactivate, our immune system will be ready and control it.
The most important thing: There is a very small chance that you will get shingles even after getting this vaccine. But even if you do, the symptoms are much milder, the pain is less, and the duration of the illness is shorter. Therefore, the protection provided by this vaccine is very high.
The most commonly used brand name of this vaccine in Sri Lanka and the world is SHINGRIX .
Things you need to tell your doctor before getting this vaccine
It is very important to inform your doctor about your health condition before taking any medicine or vaccine. Especially if you have any of the following conditions, be sure to tell your doctor about them before taking this vaccine.
| Health condition or opportunity | Why should you inform? |
|---|---|
| If you have cancer or are undergoing treatment for cancer. | Cancer treatments can weaken the body's immune system, so it's important to inform your doctor about this. |
| If you have a weakened immune system or related diseases (e.g. HIV) | Since the vaccine works through the immune system, the doctor should be aware of any weaknesses in it. |
| If you have previously had an allergic reaction to this vaccine or any other medicine or food . | This is important to confirm whether there is an allergy to anything contained in the vaccine. |
| If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant. | It is imperative to inform your doctor about this, as special instructions must be followed regarding vaccinations during pregnancy. |
| If the baby is breastfed. | It is important to seek medical advice about medications taken during breastfeeding. |
How is the vaccine given?
This is an injection that is usually given into a muscle in your upper arm. This injection is given by a qualified doctor or nurse. You cannot take it home or give it to yourself.
To be fully protected from this vaccine, you need to get two doses . You need to get the second dose between 2 and 6 months after the first dose. Your doctor will give you a specific date for this. It's a good idea to set a reminder on your calendar or phone so you don't forget.
Usually, before a vaccine is given, you are given a Vaccine Information Statement (VIS). Please read the information in it carefully.
Important: This vaccine is usually recommended for people over 50 years of age. It is also sometimes recommended for people over 18 years of age with weakened immune systems. This vaccine is not approved for use in children.
What to do if you get too much vaccine?
This is administered by medical staff so the chances of this happening are zero. However, if you think you have taken too much of this medicine, immediately go to the National Poisons Information Centre at the National Hospital or the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What to do if you miss a dose of the vaccine?
Both doses are essential for full protection. So if you miss your second dose on the scheduled day, don't miss it. Call your doctor immediately and schedule your next appointment as soon as possible. Don't miss the second dose for any reason.
Other medications that may interact with this vaccine
If you are taking medication for other conditions, it is very important to tell your doctor about it as well, as some medications can affect the effectiveness of this vaccine.
- Medications that suppress your immune system: These medications, which are given for certain diseases (e.g. arthritis), can reduce the effectiveness of the vaccine because they reduce immunity.
- Medications to treat cancer: Anticancer drugs and radiation therapy weaken the immune system.
- Steroid medications: If you are taking high doses of medications such as prednisone or cortisone for a long time, also inform your doctor about it.
This list is not complete. Therefore, tell your doctor about all the medications you take (including vitamins, herbal products, and pain relievers) . Also, tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol.
What are the possible side effects?
As with any vaccine, there are some minor side effects that can occur after getting this vaccine. Most of these are not serious and usually go away on their own within a day or two. These side effects are a sign that your body's immune system is responding to the vaccine and starting to build up protection.
| Side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Symptoms such as skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing. These may occur very rarely, but if they occur, immediate medical attention is required. |
| Side effects that are usually nothing to worry about, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Pain at the injection site | Redness, swelling, or pain at the injection site. This is very common. It will subside in a day or two. |
| Fatigue | Feeling tired on the day of the vaccination or the day after. |
| Muscle pain | Feeling like your body hurts. |
| Headache | A mild to moderate headache may occur. |
| Chills | A feeling of coldness, like a fever. |
| Fever | A slight fever may occur. |
| Feeling faint or lightheaded | It is a condition that can occur to some people. |
If you experience any other unusual symptoms not mentioned in this list, please talk to your doctor about that as well.
Take-Home Message
- The Zoster Vaccine is a vaccine given to prevent the painful disease called shingles, not a treatment for it.
- To receive full protection from this vaccine, it is essential to receive both doses within the prescribed time interval.
- Before getting the vaccine, be sure to tell your doctor about all of your health conditions and all other medications you are taking.
- Common side effects include soreness at the injection site, feeling weak, and a slight fever. These will go away in a day or two.
- If you experience severe allergic symptoms such as difficulty breathing and facial swelling, it is an emergency. Go to the nearest hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately.
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