What is shingles?
Shingles is an infectious disease caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus (varicella zoster virus). It is characterized by tingling pain and band-like blisters that appear on one side of the body. In many cases, the pain subsides with the onset of the skin eruption, but elderly people are more likely to develop a complication called postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), where the pain continues for a long time.
Why elderly people are more likely to get shingles
As we age, our immune system gradually declines. As a result, the chickenpox virus you contracted when you were younger becomes active again, making it easier to develop shingles.
The risk of developing shingles is said to be particularly high for those over 50 years of age, and it is reported that approximately 600,000 people develop shingles annually in Japan (Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, 2022).
What is postherpetic neuralgia?
PHN is a condition in which pain remains for months to years even after the shingles rash has healed. Symptoms include sharp, electric-like pain, a burning sensation, and pain when touched.
Particularly in the elderly, this pain is known to significantly impair quality of life (QOL), including sleep disturbances, depression, anxiety, and decreased ability to go out (Johnson et al., 2014).
Can be prevented with a vaccine
Shingles is preventable with a vaccine. Currently, two types of vaccines are available in Japan (live vaccine and inactivated vaccine), and both are intended for people aged 50 and over.
From April 2024, this vaccination will become eligible for public subsidies in many local governments. This is expected to significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Summary
- Please take this opportunity to consider getting vaccinated for the health of yourself and your family.
- Shingles is more common in older people and can be accompanied by severe pain and PHN.
- PHN can significantly reduce QOL and can lead to long-term suffering.
- Vaccines are effective for prevention, and publically funded vaccinations have started from April.
Our clinic offers publicly funded vaccinations, so please make a reservation online or by phone in advance.
(We will start administering vaccinations by appointment from April 14th)