Shingles is a skin rash and can be quite a painful condition marked by the appearance of blisters. This condition is also called herpes zoster and the rash normally appears one side or part of the face or the body and it can last for a period of around 2 to 4 weeks. The main symptoms associated with this condition include severe pain, headache, fever, upset stomach and chills. In recent times the development of shingles vaccine has given hope to a large number of people.

The shingles vaccine was licensed in the year 2006 and in the clinical trials of the vaccine it was found out that the vaccine prevented development of shingles in around half the individuals belonging to the age group of 60 and above. The pain associated with this condition can also be reduced following the administration of the vaccine. Varicella Zoster virus also causes chickenpox and a person who has had chicken pox can suffer from shingles. This virus remains within the body and may reappear some years later causing shingles. Shingles is rather common among people over the age of 50 and a weak immune system can also contribute to the development of this condition. Every year around 1 million individuals get the shingles vaccine in United States.

This vaccine is basically made from live shingles virus. This virus is processed within a laboratory to weaken it and alter it at molecular levels. As this virus is live the human body senses the attack and builds up immunity. The shingles vaccine is administered in a single dose for adults who are in the age group of 60 years and older. However some individuals should not get this vaccine. A person who has gelatine allergy or an allergic reaction to gelatine or neomycin which is an antibiotic or any other component used in the vaccine should not get the vaccine.

It is advisable for people opting for shingles vaccines to let the doctors know about any pre existing allergies. Likewise the doctor should be notified about weakening of the immune system due to conditions like HIV/AIDS or other diseases. If the concerned person is taking some medication that affects the immune system then this should also be brought to the notice of the doctor.

Those opting for shingles vaccine should also notify the doctor if they are undergoing cancer treatments involving chemotherapy or radiation. Those having cancer involving lymphatic system or lymphoma or leukemia should also bring this to the notice of the doctor along with any possible untreated and active tuberculosis.

A woman who has got the shingles vaccine should not attempt to get pregnant at least for three months after getting the vaccine. Likewise those having any moderate or severe illness should wait for full recovery before getting this vaccine. This vaccine may have some effects like severe allergic reactions in some people. But there is very small chance of this vaccine causing grave danger to people.

The mild problems associated with the shingles vaccine include redness, soreness, itching or swelling at the site of the injection along with headache among those getting this vaccine. Any behavioral changes, high fever and other severe reactions should be immediately brought to the notice of the medical health professionals.