Articles by Dr. Whitney
Shingles Vaccine |
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In June 2006, the FDA approved a new vaccine that reduces your chance of developing shingles by 50%. Those who get shingles despite the vaccine typically have a less severe case, and fewer develop postherpetic neuralgia. Postherpetic neuralgia is a painful condition that can last for months, even years. The vaccine is the adult version of the one that has been given to children routinely for the past 12 years.
Shingles occurs when the virus that causes chickenpox is reactivated. The virus, herpes zoster, lives dormant in the spinal cord for years. Its activity is suppressed by our immune system. As our immunity to the virus fades with time, it is able to reactivate and cause the very painful rash. The vaccine works by boosting our immune system to keep the virus inactive.
Zostavax, the shingles vaccine, is recommended by the CDC for everyone over 60 years old who has never had shingles. The problem is that the vaccine is very difficult to get. Here is the problem.
Medicare has approved payment of the vaccine, but it is through Medicare part D, the prescription coverage. Therefore, the vaccine must be picked up at your pharmacy and taken to the doctor’s office for administration.
The vaccine is frozen and must be given within 30 minutes of removal from the freezer.
Many doctors are hesitant to promise that they will be able to give the vaccine that quickly.
For people not of Medicare age, not all commercial insurances pay for the vaccine.
What if you have already had shingles? We know that up to 15% of people get shingles a 2nd time. Unfortunately, the studies were only done on people who had never had shingles, so we don’t know if the vaccine will help those who have previously had shingles.
What if you are younger than 60? Again, the studies were only done on people older than 60. I certainly see people younger than 60 get shingles, and biologically, the vaccine should work as well, if not better in younger people. Think about getting it even if you are younger than 60 and would like to minimize your chance of getting shingles. We can discuss it at your annual wellness evaluation.
Last changed: Jun 05 2009 at 1:35 PM
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