County asks adults over 50 to get shingles vaccine

Health officials are urging adults 50 and older to get a shingles vaccine. Officials estimate a third of U.S. citizens will develop shingles in their lifetime.

According to a recent press release by the Sarasota County Health Department, about half of the 1 million Americans who experienced shingles last year were 60 years and older.

Complications from shingles include a long-lasting, blistering rash and eye problems. Less often, shingles can also lead to pneumonia, hearing problems, blindness and brain inflammation. It is possible, though very rare, for shingles to lead to death.
 

“After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus stays in the body in a dormant state. For reasons that are not fully known, the virus can reactivate many years later, causing shingles,” said Dr. William Heymann, Sarasota County Health Department medical executive director.

The vaccine for use is 60% effective in preventing shingles. According to the release, the vaccine has few, if any, side effects.

For information or an appointment, call 941-861-2784. Visit the health department’s website at www.sarasotahealth.org/services/immunizations-shingles.htm for additional information.
 

Contact Eddie Kirsch at [email protected].