Dr. Faisal Al-Sayegh: Shingles vaccine is important for those over 50
Internal medicine and hematology consultant Dr. Faisal Abdullah Al-Sayegh emphasized the importance of preventing shingles, particularly among older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems. He noted that the disease is not limited to a painful rash but can lead to severe nerve pain lasting for months, and in some cases, years.
Dr. Al-Sayegh explained that shingles results from the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person contracts chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the nervous system for many years and may reactivate later in life or when the immune system weakens. He added that the disease typically presents as a painful rash in a specific area of the body. However, its most significant complication is postherpetic neuralgia, which can persist even after the rash has disappeared. More serious complications may also occur in some cases, particularly when the eyes are affected.
Who is recommended to receive the vaccine?
Dr. Al-Sayegh indicated that the Shingrix vaccine is recommended for the following groups:
- All adults aged 50 and older, even if they are in good health.
- Adults aged 19 and older with weakened immune systems.
- Cancer patients, particularly those with blood cancers, and those undergoing chemotherapy.
- Individuals receiving immunosuppressive therapies.
- Bone marrow and organ transplant recipients.
- Patients with autoimmune and rheumatic diseases who are taking immunosuppressive medications.
He clarified that Shingrix is a non-live vaccine administered in two doses. The second dose is usually given two to six months after the first, although the interval may be shortened for some immunocompromised patients based on their condition and their doctor’s recommendation. Studies indicate that the vaccine’s efficacy in individuals with normal immune systems aged 50 and older exceeds 90% in preventing shingles, and it also provides high protection against the chronic nerve pain associated with the disease.
Previous infection does not eliminate the need for vaccination
Dr. Al-Sayegh stressed that the belief that a previous case of shingles confers permanent immunity is incorrect, as the disease can recur. Therefore, vaccination is recommended even for those who have previously had the illness, provided it is administered after the acute episode has resolved and the patient has recovered.
Organ transplant recipients
Among the key groups that require special attention regarding shingles prevention are organ transplant recipients. This is because the immunosuppressive medications they need after transplantation increase their risk of contracting the disease and experiencing its complications. Dr. Al-Sayegh added that since Shingrix is not a live vaccine, it can be used in immunocompromised patients and organ transplant recipients. However, the timing of its administration is crucial and must be determined in coordination with the treating medical team, based on the type of transplant, the status of the transplanted organ, and the degree of immune suppression.
He noted that, whenever possible, it is preferable to complete the vaccination series before organ transplantation. If this is not feasible, the most appropriate timing should be determined post-transplant according to the patient’s clinical status and immunosuppressive treatment regimen.
Prevention is better than treating complications
Dr. Al-Sayegh emphasized that the importance of vaccination extends beyond preventing the skin rash; it also helps mitigate one of the most prominent complications of shingles: chronic nerve pain that can last for months or years and significantly affects sleep, mobility, and the patient’s quality of life.
He concluded by saying, “I recommend that everyone over the age of 50, as well as individuals aged 19 and older with weakened immune systems due to illness or treatment, discuss getting the shingles vaccine with their doctor. Preventing the disease and its complications is better and easier than dealing with chronic nerve pain after it occurs.”
