Trinidad & Tobago has welcomed Herpes Zoster (HZ) vaccine which represents a significant milestone in protecting the health of the population by offering an effective way to prevent reactivation of the varicella zoster virus (VZV), which can cause Herpes Zoster.
Herpes Zoster (HZ), commonly called shingles, is a painful disease that is estimated to affect one in three people during their lifetime.
Immunocompetent adults ≥ 50 years of age and immunocompromised individuals (people with a weakened immune system) are at an increased risk of shingles and associated complications.
Nnanya Kalu MD, PhD, Medical Director Shingles GSK United States, conveys on this statement from the CDC, “About 10% to 18% of people who get shingles will experience postherpetic neuralgia, or PHN which is nerve pain that lasts for months or years after the rash goes away.
Another complication of shingles involving the eye known as Herpes zoster ophthalmicus occurs in 10%-25% of zoster episodes and can lead to vision loss in rare cases.
Vaccination can help decrease the incidence of shingles and its complications within an aging and vulnerable population and mitigate long-term treatment costs.
This vaccine, with a two-dose application schedule, achieves long-lasting immunity and protects people from the risks associated with this debilitating disease.