Shingles, Explained in Exactly 2 Minutes
In this video, learn what causes shingles, the symptoms of shingles, and how shingles can be prevented and treated.
The varicella-zoster virus, or VZV, is usually associated with itchy, scratchy, polka-dotted children. VZV causes chickenpox, the infection that results in extremely itchy spots all over the body.
But if you’ve had chickenpox before, your relationship with VZV may not be over just yet. In this video, learn more about how the virus might “wake up” in your body and cause a second infection, known as shingles.
References
American Academy of Dermatology. (n.d.). Shingles: overview.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2019). About shingles (herpes zoster).
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2023). Shingles information page.
SHINGRIX (Zoster Vaccine Recombinant, Adjuvanted) is now $0 for almost everyone*
Get SHINGRIX at the pharmacy or in-network doctor’s office today. 98% of privately insured people pay $0 and all Medicare Part D beneficiaries pay $0 at the pharmacy.
Prescribing Information
*Coverage and cost may vary and are subject to change without notice. Reimbursement decisions are made by individual insurance plans.
SHINGRIX is an FDA-approved vaccine for the prevention of shingles (herpes zoster) in adults 50 years and older. SHINGRIX is not used to prevent chickenpox.
• You should not receive SHINGRIX if you are allergic to any of its ingredients or had an allergic reaction to a previous dose of SHINGRIX
• An increased risk of Guillain-Barré syndrome (severe muscle weakness) was observed after vaccination with SHINGRIX
• Fainting can happen after getting injectable vaccines, including SHINGRIX. Precautions should be taken to avoid falling and injury due to fainting
• The most common side effects are pain, redness, and swelling at the injection site, muscle pain, tiredness, headache, shivering, fever, and upset stomach
• SHINGRIX was not studied in pregnant or nursing women. Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding
• Vaccination with SHINGRIX may not protect all individuals
• Ask your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of SHINGRIX. Only a healthcare provider can decide if SHINGRIX is right for you
You are encouraged to report vaccine adverse events to the US Department of Health and Human Services. Visit www.vaers.hhs.gov to file a report, or call 1-800-822-7967.
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