As people reach the age of 50, their risk of developing shingles becomes significantly higher, making it important to understand this disease and how to prevent it. Shingles is a painful rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox. According to the CDC, more than 99% of Americans born before 1980 have had chickenpox, even if they do not remember it. After recovery, the virus remains in the body and can reactivate later in life as shingles. Sam Picking, Walgreens Senior Director of Immunizations, explains that anyone who has had chickenpox is at risk for shingles, which can result in severe pain, complications such as nerve damage, and even hospitalization. About one in three people will develop shingles during their lifetime, and the risk increases with age or a weakened immune system.
The shingles vaccine is a proven way to reduce this risk. The CDC recommends that adults aged 50 and older receive two doses of the vaccine, spaced two to six months apart. It is also recommended for adults aged 19 and older who have weakened immune systems. Clinical studies show the vaccine is 97% effective in preventing shingles and 91% effective in preventing postherpetic neuralgia, a common and painful complication. In addition to protecting against shingles, research suggests that having shingles may raise the risk of heart disease, and new data is exploring other long-term health benefits of the vaccine.
Some people worry about side effects from the vaccine, such as soreness in the arm, mild pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site. A few may experience temporary symptoms like muscle aches, headaches, or fever. Picking points out that these reactions typically last only two to three days and are far less severe than the pain caused by shingles itself. He encourages anyone with concerns to talk to a local Walgreens pharmacist, who can provide guidance and reassurance about vaccination.
Shingles usually begins with pain, itching, or tingling on one side of the body, followed by a blistering rash. Other possible symptoms include fever, fatigue, or headache. If someone experiences an unusual rash or pain, especially on one side, they should contact a healthcare provider right away. Antiviral medications can help shorten the length and reduce the severity of the illness if taken early. Although shingles itself is not contagious, the virus can be spread to people who have never had chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccine, meaning patients with active rashes should avoid contact with babies, pregnant individuals, and people with weak immune systems.
The shingles vaccine is available at Walgreens locations across the country. Appointments are flexible, including evenings and weekends, and walk-ins are welcome. Walgreens pharmacists are trained to help patients understand vaccine recommendations and make informed choices.
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