Shingles: Vaccinate Adults Over 50
Post-herpetic neuralgia can persist for months. The recombinant zoster vaccine is 90% effective.
Healthlife Editorial Team
Medical writers
In simple terms
Post-herpetic neuralgia can persist for months. The recombinant zoster vaccine is 90% effective.
What you need to remember
- Treatment — Antivirals (aciclovir, valaciclovir) within 72 hours reduce duration and complications.
Reactivation of latent varicella-zoster virus. Painful unilateral rash following a dermatome.
Treatment
Antivirals (aciclovir, valaciclovir) within 72 hours reduce duration and complications.
Ophthalmic zoster is a sight-threatening emergency.
When should you see a doctor?
- Your symptoms last more than a few weeks or keep coming back.
- They get worse quickly, or stop you doing everyday things.
- You notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding — seek urgent care.
- You already take medication and want to change anything about it.
This article explains general health information. It does not replace advice from your own doctor.
Frequently asked questions
- What is Shingles: Vaccinate Adults Over 50?
- Post-herpetic neuralgia can persist for months. The recombinant zoster vaccine is 90% effective.
- What are the main symptoms or signs of Shingles: Vaccinate Adults Over 50?
- Common signs vary from person to person. The article above lists the symptoms to watch for, how they progress, and when they need medical attention.
- When should you see a doctor for Shingles: Vaccinate Adults Over 50?
- See a doctor if symptoms last more than a few weeks, get worse quickly, stop you doing everyday things, or if you notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding.
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