Shingles (herpes zoster) is a painful condition caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus (varicella-zoster virus), which many people have in their bodies from a previous infection. The disease typically affects adults over 50 and can lead to serious complications. Fortunately, a shingles vaccine can significantly reduce the risk of developing the disease and protect against its potentially life-changing consequences.
In this post, we explain what shingles is, how the vaccine works, and how ValidaHealth can help you protect your health.
What is shingles?
Shingles is a painful skin disease that occurs when the varicella-zoster virus reactivates. After having chickenpox, the virus remains in the body, dormant in nerve tissue. For some people, the virus can reactivate later in life, often as a result of a weakened immune system, and cause shingles.
Symptoms of shingles
- Painful rash: Most often on one side of the body or face.
- Burning or stinging pain: Before the rash appears, intense pain may occur in the area.
- Blisters: Filled with fluid that can break open and form scabs.
- Fever and headache.
- Fatigue.
For some, shingles can lead to serious complications, such as:
- Postherpetic neuralgia (chronic nerve pain that can last for months or years).
- Vision problems if the eye is affected.
- Infection of the skin or other organs.
What is the shingles vaccine?
The shingles vaccine is designed to reduce the risk of developing the disease and lessen the severity of symptoms if the disease occurs. It is especially important for adults over 50 years of age and people with weakened immune systems.
Types of shingles vaccine
There are different vaccines against shingles. The most commonly used today are:
- Shingrix: A newer, highly effective vaccine recommended for people over the age of 50. It requires two doses given 2-6 months apart.
- Zostavax: An older vaccine that only requires one dose but has lower effectiveness than Shingrix.
Who should consider the shingles vaccine?
The vaccine is especially recommended for:
- People over 50 years old.
- People with chronic diseases such as diabetes or lung disease.
- People with weakened immune systems who may be more vulnerable to infections.
- Previous shingles patients to prevent recurrence.
How does the shingles vaccine work?
The vaccine helps the immune system recognize and fight the varicella-zoster virus if it is reactivated. This reduces the risk of developing shingles by up to 90% (depending on the type of vaccine and age) and reduces the risk of complications such as postherpetic neuralgia.
Vaccination at ValidaHealth
At ValidaHealth, we offer access to the latest and most effective shingles vaccines. We ensure a safe and professional experience from start to finish.
Our process:
- Book an appointment: Contact us online or by phone to arrange your vaccination.
- Vaccination: Have the vaccine administered by our experienced healthcare professionals.
- Registration: All vaccinations are registered in your official vaccination card at sundhed.dk.
Why choose ValidaHealth?
- High professionalism: Our healthcare staff specializes in preventive treatment and vaccination.
- Efficient registration: Vaccinations are automatically reported to sundhed.dk and the Danish Health Insurance Company "Denmark" for any reimbursement.
- Customized advice: We help you choose the right vaccine and plan your vaccination course.
- Flexibility: The vaccination can be arranged in our clinic or, if necessary, in your own home.
Prices and subsidies
The price of the shingles vaccine varies depending on the type of vaccine and the number of doses. Contact us for further information about prices and possible subsidies from the Danish Health Insurance.
When should you get the vaccine?
It is recommended to get the vaccine as soon as you turn 50 or earlier if you are at increased risk of shingles due to illness or a weakened immune system. Even if you have had shingles in the past, the vaccine can reduce the risk of recurrence.
