Preventing Shingles

Shingles is one of the health problems whose incidence rates have been rising, particularly among the elderly, due to the gradual decline of cell-mediated immunity with age.

The condition may begin with mild symptoms that go unnoticed, such as a burning sensation or slight tingling in a specific area of the body, followed by a skin rash. At this stage, some people believe it is merely a temporary skin issue. However, the medical reality is that these symptoms may indicate an infection with a neurocutaneous virus known as shingles, which can lead to pain and complications that may persist for long periods. Fortunately, the Kuwaiti Ministry of Health has provided the preventive vaccine for this virus, in accordance with World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations, and it can be administered at health centers designated by the Ministry.

Although shingles can be treated after infection, the recovery period is longer. Therefore, prevention through vaccination has proven its effectiveness according to scientific studies.

**Signs and Symptoms of Shingles**

The disease often begins with pain, a burning sensation, tingling, or hypersensitivity, followed by a painful skin rash. Its prevalence increases with age and can interfere with daily functions, such as sleep and rest. One of its most serious risks is the potential for brain infections, particularly in immunocompromised patients.

**Can it affect the face and eyes?**

Yes. When the virus affects the area around or near the eye, it may cause complications that impact vision. Therefore, if a painful rash appears around the forehead, nose, or eyes, especially if accompanied by pain, redness, or eye disturbances, immediate consultation with a health center is required.

**Can a person contract shingles more than once?**

Yes. A previous history of shingles does not necessarily mean a person will never get it again, making preventive vaccination the better option.

**Is shingles contagious?**

The shingles virus does not spread from person to person in the same way as some other viruses. Transmission is primarily linked to direct contact with the skin rash. Therefore, the rash should be covered, hygiene should be maintained, and direct contact with other people or sharing their personal items should be avoided.

**Vaccine Dosages and Side Effects**

Studies have shown that the vaccine is safe and typically consists of two doses, depending on age and immune status. Research indicates that the vaccine’s efficacy exceeds 90%, even for individuals over the age of 70. It can also be administered to immunocompromised individuals, organ transplant recipients, stem cell patients, and those undergoing certain immunosuppressive treatments. The most common side effects include pain at the injection site, fatigue, muscle pain, and headaches, all of which can be managed with painkillers.

**Role of the Ministry of Health**

Kuwait’s approach aligns with the methodology recommended by the World Health Organization regarding this disease. The Ministry has initiated a systematic mechanism for prevention, involving data collection and statistical analysis through the Public Health Department and vaccination centers, as well as raising public health awareness about the disease and its prevention.

The Ministry has also begun establishing a database on shingles, covering incidence rates, risk factors, age, gender, complications, patients’ health conditions, pain types, and residential locations of cases.

**Role of the Physician**

It is certain that we, as physicians, can contribute to promoting a preventive culture and effectively encouraging vaccinations. This role should not be confined solely to the responsibility of dermatology clinics, because all of us as doctors—whether in primary care, family medicine, internal medicine, oncology, rheumatology, chronic disease management, and other specialties—must seize the opportunity of any patient visit to educate them on prevention and encourage vaccination.

An old golden saying goes, “A dirham of prevention is worth a quintal of cure.” So why wait for pain to come to you?

A Kuwaiti writer