Prevention

Prevention of shingles in people that have contracted chickenpox is difficult, since the factors that trigger reactivation are not yet defined. However, if a person is never infected with the virus, shingles will not develop. Furthermore, there are at least two methods that are currently used to reduce the incidence of shingles.

First, the VZV vaccine, otherwise known as the chickenpox vaccine, may decrease the incidence of shingles by enhancing the immune system's ability to fight off VZV (about 70%-90% effective) or keep this virus inactive. This vaccine is usually administered to children, but the immunity may decline in about 15-20 years. Boosters of this vaccine for use in adults are now being investigated and may help prevent shingles in the future.

Second, there is a new vaccine, Zostavax, which the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that all adults of ages 60 and older obtain. Data shows that the vaccine prevents about 51% of shingles cases and about 67% of PHN. It is most effective in the 60-69 age group; its efficacy in older patients is still being studied. The vaccine is not given to patients with ongoing shingles disease because it is only effective in preventing or reducing complications of the disease (PHN) before the virus is reactivated.

Varicella zoster immune globulin (VZIG or ZIG) can be used to passively prevent VSV infection, but it is used rarely and only in special cases (for example, newborns, pregnancy, immune-compromised patients). Currently, there is no data that suggests VZIG prevents shingles.

You cannot get shingles directly from someone else with shingles. However, if you have not had chickenpox, you can get chickenpox from close contact with open blisters of someone with shingles. Consequently, you may get shingles at a later time in your life. Covering the rash with a dressing or clothing helps decrease the risk of spreading the infection to others.

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