Do you remember the blisters that came out all over your body when you got chickenpox as a child, and the itching and discomfort? Many of us think that once you get over chickenpox, the disease is over and the virus is completely gone from your body. But the truth is a little different. The chickenpox virus, or Varicella-Zoster Virus, does not completely leave our bodies. It remains dormant, or rather sleeping, in our nervous system for many years. Then, as we age or when our immune system weakens, this latent virus can reawaken. That's when the painful disease called herpes zoster (shingles) occurs.
What exactly is herpes zoster (shingles)?
Simply put, herpes zoster is a second outbreak of the chickenpox virus. This time, it's not like chickenpox, but more severe.
This disease usually causes blistering of the skin, often in a band-like pattern, on one side of the body. This pain can feel like a burning or electric shock. Some people may develop nerve pain in the same area for months or even years after the rash has healed (a condition called ``Postherpetic Neuralgia``). This is one of the most dangerous complications of this disease.
Imagine, if you felt unbearable pain even when a piece of clothing touched your body? That is the nature of this condition. In some cases, if this damage occurs in the eyes, it can lead to vision loss, and if it occurs in the ears, it can lead to hearing impairment. Therefore, this is not a disease to be taken lightly.
Let's learn about the vaccine (Shingrix) for this.
Fortunately, there is now a very effective vaccine to protect against this terrible disease. That vaccine is called `Shingrix`.
- Highly effective: This vaccine is more than 90% effective in preventing herpes zoster.
- Safety: It is currently confirmed that good protection is provided for at least 7 years after receiving the vaccine.
- Two doses: To be fully protected, you need to get two doses of this vaccine. The first dose should be given and the second dose should be given between 2 and 6 months after the first dose.
Although there used to be another vaccine called `Zostavax`, the `Shingrix` vaccine is now the most commonly recommended vaccine in the world. Because `Shingrix` is a vaccine made using an inactivated part of the virus, it is safer and more effective. Doctors recommend that you get the `Shingrix` vaccine even if you have previously received the `Zostavax` vaccine.
Who is most important to get this vaccine?
Let's take a clear look at who this vaccine is suitable for. You can easily understand it from the table below.
| Group of People | Medical Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Healthy people over 50 years old | Highly recommended. The risk increases as immunity naturally declines with age. |
| People over 19 years old, immunocompromised | Highly recommended. The risk is highest for those with diseases such as cancer, HIV, or those taking immunosuppressants. |
| People who have previously had herpes zoster (shingles) | Yes, it is recommended. This disease can recur. Vaccination significantly reduces that risk. |
| People who don't remember having chickenpox as a child | Yes, it is recommended. About 99% of people have had chickenpox as a child (even if they don't show symptoms). So the virus can be present in the body. |
Who should not get the vaccine?
This vaccine is not suitable for everyone. You should avoid getting this vaccine in the following situations:
- Severe Allergies: If you have ever had a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to a previous vaccine, such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the mouth or throat, do not get this vaccine. Also, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any of the ingredients in the Shingrix vaccine.
- Current medical condition: If you currently have herpes zoster, or are suffering from another illness such as the flu, wait until that illness is completely resolved before getting the vaccine.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, do not get the vaccine during this time. Talk to your doctor about getting the vaccine after you stop breastfeeding.
- People who have never had chickenpox: Very rarely, if a blood test confirms that you have never been infected with the chickenpox virus (`VZV`), you should not get this vaccine, but the vaccine that prevents chickenpox (`Chickenpox vaccine`).
What are the side effects of the vaccine? Should I be afraid?
As with any vaccine, minor side effects may occur after receiving the Shingrix vaccine. However, there is nothing to worry about. These usually disappear completely within 2-3 days.
- Redness, swelling, and pain at the injection site.
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Shivering and fever
- Stomach ache or nausea
Remember, these side effects are a good sign that your body's immune system is waking up and getting used to fighting future viruses. This temporary discomfort is very minor compared to the long-term protection provided by the vaccine.
But, be careful about this!
If you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, extreme weakness, or dizziness after receiving the vaccine, it could be a sign of a severe allergic reaction. In such a case, immediately go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Can I still get shingles even after getting the vaccine?
`Shingrix` is a very effective vaccine. But it is not 100% effective. Therefore, very rarely, even someone who has been vaccinated has a small chance of developing shingles. But even if they do, the symptoms are very mild. The risk of severe pain and long-term complications is very low. That means you are protected by the vaccine anyway.
Take-Home Message
- Shingles is a severe, painful disease caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus from childhood.
- The Shingrix vaccine can prevent more than 90% of cases of this disease.
- If you are over 50 years old, or over 19 years old with a weakened immune system, it is very important to consider getting this vaccine.
- This is a two-dose vaccine. It is essential to receive both doses for full protection.
- Side effects after vaccination are usually temporary and mild, but watch out for severe allergic reactions.
- Talk to your doctor about whether this vaccine is right for you and how to get it before making a final decision.
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