| Vaccination and Treatment Strategies for Shingles: An Updated Review |
| Paper ID : 1326-IGA |
| Authors |
|
Kimia Parsi * Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran. |
| Abstract |
| Background and Aim: Shingles (herpes zoster) is a viral infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus responsible for chickenpox. It primarily affects individuals over 50 years of age and those with weakened immune systems. The disease is characterized by painful skin lesions, which may lead to postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a persistent and debilitating nerve pain. This review aims to summarize current knowledge on the etiology, clinical presentation, prevention, and treatment of shingles, with a focus on the role of vaccination and antiviral therapy. Methods: Relevant literature on shingles pathophysiology, clinical features, and management was reviewed, including published studies on antiviral treatments and vaccination efficacy. Results: Shingles presents with pain, tingling, fever, headache, fatigue, and localized vesicular rashes. Early administration of antiviral medications such as acyclovir, as well as herbal antiviral ointments (e.g., Mirtoplex, Aftoplex, Melissane), can reduce the duration and severity of symptoms. Analgesics such as paracetamol, NSAIDs, or opioids are recommended for acute pain control. Vaccination with available shingles vaccines decreases the risk of developing the disease by 50–90% and reduces the likelihood and intensity of postherpetic neuralgia. Conclusion: Shingles remains a significant public health issue, particularly in older and immunocompromised populations. Early antiviral treatment and pain management are essential to reduce complications, while vaccination is the most effective preventive strategy. Increased awareness and timely immunization can substantially lower the burden of shingles and its long-term sequelae. |
| Keywords |
| Shingles, Herpes zoster, Varicella-zoster virus, Vaccination, Antiviral therapy |
| Status: Accepted |
