DEDICATION TO THE MEDICAL PROFESSION - 1st Nov.
1. The risk of developing shingles, as well as the severity of long-term, debilitating complications from the virus, increases markedly form age 50, even in otherwise healthy adults. This correlates with an age-related decline in cell-mediated immunity to the virus. The severity and duration of herpes zoster can be reduced with antiviral therapy, when administered within 72 hours, but it does not stop the development of post-herpetic neuralgia.
2. The prolonged, debilitating pain after zoster may persist long after the dermatomal rash has healed, and is known as post-herpetic neuralgia.
3. A vaccin, ZOSTAVAX, is available for eligible patients - a single vaccination for those over age 60 who have not previously received zoster vaccine. Serological testing prior to vaccination is not recommended ( Professor Michael Woodward, Senior Geriatrician, Austin Health, Oct 2014).