PSA: Protect Yourself from Shingles After 50

If you’re over 50, it’s time to think about protecting yourself from shingles.

Shingles is a painful rash caused by reactivation of the chickenpox virus.

It typically starts with an itchy, red bumpy rash that spreads along a single dermatome – the distribution pattern of a specific nerve root. The affected area can be so sensitive that even the wind hurts. Shingles can lead to long-lasting nerve pain called post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) and fatigue that can impact quality of life. The risk of developing PHN goes up as we age. Around 50% of octogenarians will suffer the complications if they aren’t protected.

The Shingrix vaccine is highly effective at preventing shingles and its complications—and it’s recommended for most adults age 50 and older.

• Two-dose series

• Over 90% effective

• Helps prevent long-term nerve pain (postherpetic neuralgia)

Even if you’ve had shingles before, vaccination is still recommended.

Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist about whether the shingles vaccine is right for you.