Expert Panel Recommends New Shingles Vaccine

Overview

Shingles is a painful rash caused by the virus that causes chickenpox. The virus can stay quiet in the body for years and then wake up in a nerve. A panel of experts has recommended a newer shingles vaccine for eligible adults. This article explains shingles and what that recommendation means.

Shingles is common. Many people who had chickenpox will get shingles at some point in their life.

It mostly affects adults over 50 and people with a weakened immune system. Anyone who has had chickenpox can get shingles, even if they were young when they had it.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Pain, tingling, burning, or itching on one side of the body before a rash appears
• A red rash with fluid-filled blisters, usually in a band or strip on one side
• Flu-like feelings such as headache, tiredness, or mild fever
• Skin sensitivity or sharp pain in the rash area

Symptoms in children

• Shingles is uncommon in healthy children.
• When it happens, children may have a rash and pain similar to adults.
• A child with a painful or blistering rash should be checked by a healthcare provider.

Symptoms in older adults

• Pain may be stronger and last longer.
• There is a higher chance of lasting nerve pain after the rash heals.
• Eye or ear problems are more likely, so same-day care matters if the rash is near the eye or ear.

Causes

Main causes

• The virus that causes chickenpox stays in the body after chickenpox and can wake up later.
• When it wakes up, it travels along a nerve and causes shingles.
• It can happen when the immune system is lower than usual.

Risk factors

• Being 50 or older
• Having a weakened immune system from illness or treatment
• Taking medicines that suppress the immune system
• Having had chickenpox
• Physical illness or serious stress on the body

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• A rash near the eye, on the tip of the nose, or with eye pain or vision changes
• A rash in the ear with hearing loss, ringing, or dizziness
• A new rash and a weakened immune system
• Signs of skin infection such as spreading redness, warmth, pus, or fever
• Severe pain that is not controlled

Book a routine appointment if:

• A painful, tingling, or burning rash on one side of the body
• A blistering rash that follows a band or strip
• You are unsure whether a rash is shingles

Diagnosis

A healthcare provider can often diagnose shingles by looking at the rash and asking about pain, symptoms, and past chickenpox.

Tests that may be done

• A swab from a blister may be sent to check for the virus
• An eye exam if the rash is near the eye
• Blood tests are rarely needed

What to expect at your appointment

Your provider will check the rash and ask about your health and medicines. If needed, they may arrange a swab or eye check. Early care is important, especially if the rash is near the eye or ear.

Treatment

Treatment aims to ease pain, help the rash heal, and lower the chance of lasting problems. Starting treatment early is best.

Self-care at home

• Keep the rash clean and dry
• Use cool compresses
• Wear loose cotton clothing
• Do not scratch or pop blisters
• Rest and drink fluids
• Avoid close contact with people who have never had chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccine, especially pregnant people, babies, and people with weakened immunity, until blisters crust over

Medical treatments

Prescription antiviral medicines can help if started soon after the rash appears. Pain can be managed with medicines and skin care. Your clinician will choose what is safe for you based on your age, kidneys, other health conditions, and other medicines. Do not take leftover medicines or someone else's medicine.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not used to treat shingles. In rare cases, other problems caused by shingles may need specialist care.

Living with this condition

Shingles can be painful and tiring. Plan rest, keep clothing loose, and ask for help with daily tasks if needed.

Lifestyle tips

• Get enough sleep
• Avoid scratching the rash
• Keep the rash area clean and dry
• Wash your hands often
• Stay away from people who are at higher risk of chickenpox until blisters crust over

Diet and exercise

Eat regular meals and drink enough fluids. Gentle movement may help you feel better, but rest if you are tired or in pain.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Long-lasting pain, poor sleep, and changed daily life can affect mood. If you feel low, anxious, or unable to cope, tell your healthcare team. If you have thoughts of harming yourself, contact local crisis support or emergency services right away.

Prevention

Yes. Vaccination lowers the risk of shingles and lasting nerve pain. Avoiding close contact with people who have active shingles can also help protect people who are not immune to chickenpox.

Vaccines

Expert panels have recommended a newer shingles vaccine for eligible adults, often older adults and people with weakened immunity. Country guidance differs. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you are eligible and where to get it.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening for shingles. Vaccination is the main prevention step.

Complications

If left untreated

• Lasting nerve pain called postherpetic neuralgia
• Eye damage or vision loss if the rash affects the eye
• Ear problems, including hearing loss or dizziness
• Skin infection from scratching
• Rarely, more serious nerve or brain problems

Long-term outlook

Most people get better. Early treatment and vaccination can lower the chance of lasting problems. If you are worried, reach out for support.

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