MedWorm: Shingles (Herpes Zoster) Vaccine

Improving rates of herpes zoster vaccination with a clinical decision support system in a primary care practice

Journal of Evaluation in Clinical Practice — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion Herpes zoster vaccination rate significantly improved with implementation of a web‐based clinical decision support system. (Source: Journal of Evaluation in Clinical Practice)

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Controversial Amendments Injected Into Florida Vaccine BillControversial Amendments Injected Into Florida Vaccine Bill

Medscape Today Headlines — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 21:18:54 +0100

Pharmacists descended on the state capitol Wednesday to support a bill sponsored by state Rep. Ana Rivas Logan, R-Miami, which would allow them to give shingles and pneumonia vaccines to seniors. Kaiser Health News (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Employment related productivity loss associated with herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia: A 6-month prospective study.

Vaccine — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Drolet M, Levin MJ, Schmader KE, Johnson R, Oxman MN, Patrick D, Fournier SO, Mansi JA, Brisson M Abstract We conducted a prospective multi-center study to assess productivity loss associated with herpes zoster (HZ) and postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). From 10/2005 to 07/2006, we recruited immunocompetent subjects aged ≥50 years with HZ within 14 days of rash onset across Canada. Of the 249 patients recruited, 88 were employed. Data on employment status, absences from work, reasons for absence and effectiveness at work were documented at recruitment, 7-14-21-30-60-90-120-150 and 180 days later. The majority (64%) of employed subjects missed work because of HZ and 76% reported decreased effectiveness at work (i.e. presenteeism) because of HZ/PHN. Mean hours of absenteeism an...

Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus Is Not Just for the ElderlyHerpes Zoster Ophthalmicus Is Not Just for the Elderly

Medscape Today Headlines — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 17:04:54 +0100

How have the chicken pox and shingles vaccines affected the incidence and severity of herpes zoster ophthalmicus? Medscape Ophthalmology (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

The health and economic burden of chickenpox and herpes zoster in Belgium.

Herpes — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

In conclusion, both diseases cause a substantial burden in Belgium. PMID: 22230041 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Herpes)

Update on Herpes Zoster Vaccine: Licensure for Persons Aged 50 Through 59 Years [From the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention]

JAMA — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: JAMA)

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Varicella-zoster virus glycoproteins B and E are major targets of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells reconstituting during zoster after allogeneic transplantation.

Haematologica — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions. Our data demonstrate that glycoproteins B and E are major targets of varicella-zoster virus specific CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell reconstitution occurring during herpes zoster after allogeneic stem-cell transplantation. Varicella-zoster virus glycoproteins B and E might form the basis for novel nonhazardous zoster subunit vaccines suitable for immunocompromised transplant patients. PMID: 22207687 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Haematologica)

Update on Herpes Zoster VaccineUpdate on Herpes Zoster Vaccine

Medscape Today Headlines — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Who should receive the herpes zoster vaccine? This new report outlines the most recent recommendations. Morbidity & Mortality Weekly Report (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Sequencing and characterization of Varicella Zoster virus vaccine strain SuduVax

Virology Journal — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The Korean VZV vaccine strain SuduVax is genetically similar to the Oka vaccine strains. Further comparative genomic and bioinformatics analyses will help to elucidate the molecular basis of the attenuation of the VZV vaccine strains. (Source: Virology Journal)

Herpes Zoster: Who's at Risk and Who Should be VaccinatedHerpes Zoster: Who's at Risk and Who Should be Vaccinated

Medscape Today Headlines — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 14:16:00 +0100

Who should, and who should not, receive the zoster vaccine is clarified in this brief update from the CDC. CDC Expert Commentary (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Acute Retinal Necrosis After Herpes Zoster Vaccination [Small Case Series]

Archives of Opthalmology — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Archives of Opthalmology)

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Update on Herpes Zoster Vaccine: Licensure for Persons Aged 50 Through 59 Years

CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report — Sat, 12 Nov 2011 04:00:15 +0100

(Source: CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report)

Update on herpes zoster vaccine: licensure for persons aged 50 through 59 years.

MMWR Morb Mortal Wkl... — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Abstract Herpes zoster vaccine (Zostavax, Merck & Co., Inc.) was licensed and recommended in 2006 for prevention of herpes zoster among adults aged 60 years and older. In March 2011, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of Zostavax in adults aged 50 through 59 years. In June 2011, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) declined to recommend the vaccine for adults aged 50 through 59 years and reaffirmed its current recommendation that herpes zoster vaccine be routinely recommended for adults aged 60 years and older. PMID: 22071592 [PubMed - in process] (Source: MMWR Morb Mortal Wkl...)

Shortage curbs shingles vaccine expansion

Health News - UPI.com — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 04:03:11 +0100

ATLANTA, Nov. 10 (UPI) -- The shingles vaccine -- Zostavax -- recently had its license expanded to cover people ages 50-59, but there are supply problems, U.S. health officials said. (Source: Health News - UPI.com)

Health Highlights: Nov. 10, 2011

Primary Care News - Doctors Lounge — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 15:46:00 +0100

Childhood Vaccinations Hit Record Number in 2010 Shingles Vaccine Shortage Influences Immunizations No Paid Maternity Leave for Half of U.S. Working Women FDA Targets Illegal Tobacco Sales to Minors U.S. Agency Restores Web Database on Doctor Discipline (Source: Primary Care News - Doctors Lounge)

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Update on immunizations in adults.

American Family Physician — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Authors: Vaughn JA, Miller RA Abstract Vaccine-preventable diseases contribute significantly to the morbidity and mortality of U.S. adults. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updates its recommended adult immunization schedule annually. The most recent updates include the permissive but not routine use of the quadrivalent human papillomavirus vaccine to prevent genital warts in males; a single dose of herpes zoster vaccine for adults 60 years and older, regardless of their history; replacing a single dose of tetanus and diphtheria toxoids (Td) vaccine with tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine in adults 19 years and older who have not previously received Tdap; expanding the indications for pneumoc...

Shingles Vaccine Safe For Use in Adults on Biologic Agents for RA

Rheumatology News International — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100

CHICAGO – The shingles vaccine does not increase the risk of shingles in patients taking biologics for autoimmune or inflammatory conditions, based on data from more than 7,000 adults. (Source: Rheumatology News International)

The use, safety and effectiveness of herpes zoster vaccination in individuals with inflammatory and autoimmune diseases: a longitudinal observational study

Arthritis Research and Therapy — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Use of the zoster vaccine was uncommon among older patients with autoimmune diseases, including those not exposed to immunosuppressive medications. The short-term risk of HZ did not appear to be increased in vaccinated patients, even among those using immunosuppressive therapies (e.g. biologics) at the time of vaccination. However, our study was limited by the small number of vaccinated patients, and further evidence is needed to confirm the vaccine's safety and efficacy in this population. (Source: Arthritis Research and Therapy)

Comparing Shingles Incidence and Complication Rates From Medical Record Review and Administrative Database Estimates: How Close Are They?

American Journal of Epidemiology — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

This study compares the results obtained from the most commonly used method to obtain herpes zoster data (rates obtained from administrative data) with results obtained when administrative data are supplemented by medical record review. Administrative billing code data identified 1,959 cases of herpes zoster in Olmsted County, Minnesota, adults between January 1, 1996, and December 31, 2001. Of those 1,959 cases, 1,669 (85.2%) could be confirmed by medical record review, a decrease in incidence rate of 14.8%, resulting in a decrease of 0.61/1,000 person-years when adjusted to the US adult population. Complication rates were also significantly different between the 2 methods. It is not clear if the 15% decrease in incidence rates would be seen in every administrative data set or if the lack...

[Current events in vaccination.]

Archives de Pediatrie — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Authors: Aubert M, Aumaître H, Beytout J, Bloch K, Bouhour D, Callamand P, Chave C, Cheymol J, Combadière B, Dahlab A, Denis F, De Pontual L, Dodet B, Dommergues MA, Dufour V, Gagneur A, Gaillat J, Gaudelus J, Gavazzi G, Gillet Y, Gras-le-Guen C, Haas H, Hanslik T, Hau-Rainsard I, Larnaudie S, Launay O, Lorrot M, Loulergue P, Malvy D, Marchand S, Picherot G, Pinquier D, Pulcini C, Rabaud C, Regnier F, Reinert P, Sana C, Savagner C, Soubeyrand B, Stephan JL, Strady C Abstract The annual meeting of the Infectious Disease Society of America (IDSA) ; which brought together nearly 5000 participants from over 80 countries in Vancouver, Canada, October 21 to 24, 2010 ; provided a review of the influenza (H1N1) 2009 pandemic, evaluated vaccination programmes and presented new vacci...

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Health Tip: Getting the Shingles Vaccine

The Doctors Lounge - Infections — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0100

Who is a candidate, and who isn't (Source: The Doctors Lounge - Infections)

Update on herpes zoster vaccination: A family practitioner's guide.

Canadian Family Physician Medecin de Famille Canadien — Sat, 01 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusion The HZ vaccine is a safe and effective preventive measure for reducing the overall burden and severity of HZ in older adults. The vaccine appears to be cost-effective when administered to adults aged 60 years and older. PMID: 21998225 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Canadian Family Physician Medecin de Famille Canadien)

Herpes zoster infection, vaccination and immunocompromised rheumatology patients

Rheumatology International — Sat, 24 Sep 2011 05:42:47 +0100

Abstract Varicella is a self-limiting and relatively mild disease of childhood, although it is frequently more severe and complicated among the immunocompromised rheumatology patients on immunomodulator therapies. In addition, future reactivation of the dormant virus in dorsal root ganglia may cause herpes zoster infection, which can be very debilitating. In this manuscript, we discuss the nature of this infection along with its potential vaccine especially among rheumatology patients. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Short CommunicationPages 1-2DOI 10.1007/s00296-011-2155-9Authors Mortimer B. O’Connor, Department of Rheumatology, South Infirmary Victoria University Hospital, Cork, IrelandMark J. Phelan, Department of Rheumatology, South Infirmary Victoria Univer...

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Family history and herpes zoster risk in the era of shingles vaccination

Journal of Clinical Virology — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Abstract: Background: Herpes zoster is a common mucocutaneous infection caused by reactivation of latent varicella zoster virus previously introduced during a varicella infection. The epidemiology of the disease has changed since the approval of Zostavax® and the risk factors have been studied in depth.Objectives: To further assess the possibility of family history as a risk factor for herpes zoster, determine the age of herpes zoster onset and the rate of recurrence.Study design: A case–control study involved 1103 acute herpes zoster patients and 523 controls.Results: Case patients were more likely to report blood relatives with a history of herpes zoster than controls (43.5% vs. 10.5%; P (Source: Journal of Clinical Virology)

Comparing Shingles Incidence and Complication Rates From Medical Record Review and Administrative Database Estimates: How Close Are They?

Am J Epidemiol — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Shingles: Preventing and treating this painful skin disease

MayoClinic.com Full Feed — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Shingles — Comprehensive overview covers causes, symptoms, treatments and prevention, which includes a vaccine. (Source: MayoClinic.com Full Feed)

Contacts with children and young people and adult risk of suffering herpes zoster.

Vaccine — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Authors: Salleras M, Domínguez A, Soldevila N, Prat A, Garrido P, Torner N, Borrás E, Salleras L Abstract We carried out a matched case-control study to analyze the possible association between exposure to the children and the risk of suffering herpes-zoster in adulthood. Cases of herpes zoster in immunocompetent healthy patients aged ≥25 years seen in the dermatology department of the Sagrado Corazón Hospital in 2007-2008 were matched with four controls. Data were analyzed using conditional logistic regression. 153 cases and 604 matched controls were included. Contacts with children were significantly associated with a reduction in the risk of suffering herpes zoster in adulthood (adjusted OR 0.56 [0.37-0.85]). Herpes-zoster vaccination in immunocompetent people aged ≥50 ye...

Well Blog: The Minimal Risks of Vaccines

NYT Health — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 18:29:39 +0100

Chickenpox vaccine carries some potential for side effects that can crop up years after the shot is administered, but the same problems are far more likely in patients who are infected naturally. (Source: NYT Health)

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ZOSTAVAX (Zoster Vaccine Live) Injection, Powder, Lyophilized, For Suspension STERILE DILUENT (Sterile Water) Injection [Merck Sharp Dohme Corp.]

DailyMed Drug Label Updates for the last seven days (since May 20, 2007 EST) — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Updated Date: Aug 16, 2011 EST (Source: DailyMed Drug Label Updates for the last seven days (since May 20, 2007 EST))

Herpes ans Zoster Keratitis

Acta Ophthalmologica — Sat, 13 Aug 2011 09:23:27 +0100

AbstractHerpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella‐zoster virus (VZV) are two leading causes of corneal infection with potential severely impaired visual acuity. These two viruses share multiple characteristics, including the ability to become latent in the trigeminal ganglia, before reactivation and migration along the trigeminal fibers innervating the cornea. The clinical settings of keratitis may vary from an epithelial defect (dendritic of geographic) to a more severe disease involving the stroma and/or the endothelium. Classically, HSV keratitis occurs from the second decade of life, and associated skin disease is not frequent and only involves the eyelids. In contrast, VZV keratitis mostly occurs after the sixth decade, as an associated finding of herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO). Ho...

Costly shingles vaccine is in short supply

L.A. Times - Health — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Fewer than 10 percent of those eligible have been immunized against painful diseaseWhen the virus awakens in those of us with immune systems weakened by age or stress, it arrives as blistered nerve endings—often on the head, face or in the midsection—so inflamed that sometimes even the most powerful painkillers provide no relief. (Source: L.A. Times - Health)

ACIP Recs Stand: Zoster Vaccine for 60 and Older: Duration of vaccine protection when given before peak age of zoster incidence was a factor for ACIP.

Rheumatology News — Sun, 31 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100

ATLANTA – No changes are being made to the current recommendation of herpes zoster vaccination for adults aged 60 years and older, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices reported (Source: Rheumatology News)

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Zostavax (Zoster Vaccine Live) - updated on RxList

RxList - New and Updated Drug Monographs — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 07:00:00 +0100

Zostavax (Zoster Vaccine Live) drug description - FDA approved labeling for prescription drugs and medications at RxList (Source: RxList - New and Updated Drug Monographs)

The New Old Age: The Fight Against Shingles Falters

NYT Health — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 21:24:31 +0100

But the vaccine remains hard to find, cumbersome to get reimbursed for, and not nearly as widely used as researchers had hoped. (Source: NYT Health)

Drive to Stem Shingles Meets Few Expectations

NYT Health — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 15:56:39 +0100

As a result of myriad obstacles, just 10 percent of adults over age 60 were vaccinated against shingles in 2009 in the United States. (Source: NYT Health)

Emerging drugs for varicella-zoster virus infections.

Herpes — Thu, 23 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Andrei G, Snoeck R Introduction: Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) is the etiological agent of two distinct diseases, varicella (chickenpox) and shingles (herpes zoster). Chickenpox occurs following primary infection, while herpes zoster (usually associated with ageing and immunosuppression) is the consequence of reactivation of the latent virus. Post-herpetic neuralgia is the major complication of shingles. Areas covered: This review will discuss vaccination strategies and the current status of antivirals against VZV. A live attenuated vaccine, Varivax, is available for pediatric varicella while Zostavax was developed to boost VZV-specific cell-mediated immunity in adults older than 60 years and, via this mechanism, to decrease the burden of herpes zoster and pain associated with ...

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Video: CDC considers wider use of shingles vaccine

Health News: CBSNews.com — Sat, 18 Jun 2011 23:44:09 +0100

A vaccine to prevent shingles has been available for five years, but few Americans are getting it. Next week, a panel from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will consider recommending its wider use. Dr. Jon LaPook reports. (Source: Health News: CBSNews.com)

Herpes zoster in Germany: Quantifying the burden of disease

BMC Infectious Diseases — Wed, 15 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Our study provides important baseline estimates for HZ-related disease burden in Germany. HZ poses a considerable burden on the health care system in Germany both in terms of outpatient and inpatient services. Follow-up assessments of HZ disease burden are needed to monitor the impact of VZV-vaccinations in Germany. (Source: BMC Infectious Diseases)

Herpes zoster in Germany: Quantifying the burden of disease.

Herpes — Wed, 15 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION: Our study provides important baseline estimates for HZ-related disease burden in Germany. HZ poses a considerable burden on the health care system in Germany both in terms of outpatient and inpatient services. Follow-up assessments of HZ disease burden are needed to monitor the impact of VZV-vaccinations in Germany. PMID: 21679419 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Herpes)

Celebrities Can Give Positive Health Behaviors a Shot in the Arm, Really!

Psychology Today Anxiety Center — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 18:46:49 +0100

For getting the shingles vaccination, fear is a strong motivator.read more (Source: Psychology Today Anxiety Center)

Zoster vaccine (Zostavax): a guide to its use in preventing herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia

Drugs — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 02:05:44 +0100

(Source: Drugs)

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Adult Immunizations: Update on Recommendations

The American Journal of Medicine — Tue, 07 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Abstract: The Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices recommends universal influenza vaccination for 2010-2011. Older adults should be offered protection against herpes zoster, and younger adults should receive immunization against human papilloma virus and pertussis. Hepatitis B vaccination should be encouraged in non-immune adults. Recommendations also address vaccinations for tetanus/diphtheria, hepatitis A, pneumococcus, measles/mumps/rubella, and meningococcus. (Source: The American Journal of Medicine)

Herpes Zoster in a Pediatric Patient

Optometry - Journal of the American Optometric Association — Fri, 27 May 2011 16:06:11 +0100

Herpes zoster, otherwise known as shingles, is a reactivation of the varicella zoster virus. Herpes zoster is generally associated with older individuals and is rare but not uncommon in the pediatric population. A study review reveals several reasons why a pediatric patient could present with a herpes zoster infection, including gestational exposure to varicella, a low-grade and undetected natural chicken pox infection, an adverse reaction to the varicella vaccination, or immunodeficiency. While the clinical presentation is similar between the older and younger populations, the complications of herpes zoster in the pediatric population are generally less severe. (Source: Optometry - Journal of the American Optometric Association)

ZOSTAVAX (Zoster Vaccine Live) Injection, Powder, Lyophilized, For Suspension STERILE DILUENT (Sterile Water) Injection [Merck Sharp Dohme Corp.]

DailyMed Drug Label Updates for the last seven days (since May 20, 2007 EST) — Mon, 16 May 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Updated Date: May 16, 2011 EST (Source: DailyMed Drug Label Updates for the last seven days (since May 20, 2007 EST))

Shingles vaccine can protect you but it can be hard to find

USATODAY.com Health — Sat, 14 May 2011 17:00:00 +0100

While a shingles vaccine does exists to reduce the risk of shingles in certain age groups, there are many obstacles to obtaining the shot. (Source: USATODAY.com Health)

La Russa prompts shingles vaccine calls

bizjournals.com Health Care:Biotechnology headlines — Fri, 13 May 2011 19:47:38 +0100

(Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Biotechnology headlines)

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Simultaneous Pneumococcal And Shingles Vaccines Safe - FDA Concerns Challenged

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 13 May 2011 19:00:00 +0100

Giving patients both the herpes zoster and pneumococcal vaccines simultaneously does not seem to undermine the zoster vaccine's protective effect, despite FDA concerns to the contrary, researchers from Kaiser Permanente wrote in the journal Vaccine. The package insert of the zoster vaccine says the two should be given in separate doctor visits. Doing them both at the same time is much more convenient and cheaper for the patient. If it is also safe, there seems no point in doing them separately, the authors wrote... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Zoster and Pneumococcal Vaccines May Be Given Concomitantly

Medscape Today Headlines — Fri, 13 May 2011 02:12:08 +0100

Giving pneumococcal and herpes zoster vaccines to patients during the same visit may be beneficial without compromising the protective effect of the zoster vaccine. Medscape Medical News (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Study challenges concerns on effectiveness of administering pneumococcal, shingles vaccines together

ScienceDaily Headlines — Wed, 11 May 2011 23:32:32 +0100

Kaiser Permanente Study Challenges Concerns On Effectiveness Of Administering Pneumococcal & Shingles Vaccines Together

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 11 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Administering both the pneumococcal and the herpes zoster vaccines to patients during the same visit is beneficial and does not appear to compromise the protective effect of the zoster vaccine, according to a Kaiser Permanente study published today in the journal Vaccine. The study's findings challenge information in the zoster vaccine manufacturer's package insert. This new information is important to patients who find it more convenient and less costly to receive both vaccines from their health care providers during the same visit... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

FDA Expands Age Range for Shingles Vaccine [Medical News & Perspectives]

JAMA — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100

(Source: JAMA)

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Herpes Zoster Vaccine and Older Adults [Letters]

JAMA — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100

(Source: JAMA)

Herpes Zoster Vaccine and Older Adults--Reply [Letters]

JAMA — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100

(Source: JAMA)

Vaccination for preventing postherpetic neuralgia

NeLM - Disease Focused Reviews — Sun, 03 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Source: Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews Background Herpes zoster virus vaccine was recommended for the prevention of herpes zoster and its sequelae by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) in 2006. To date the efficacy and safety of vaccination for preventing the most common complication of zoster, postherpetic neuralgia, has not been systematically reviewed. Objectives To assess the efficacy and safety of vaccination in preventing postherpetic neuralgia. Search strategy We searched MEDLINE (January 1966 to December 2010), EMBASE (January 1980 to January 2011), LILACS (January 1982 to December 2010), the Cochrane Neuromuscular Disease (NMD) Group Specialized Register (10 January 2010), the Cochrane ...

Adult Immunization Rates Slow to Improve, CDC Finds

Rheumatology News — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Adult immunization rates in the United States are improving but very slowly, according to new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Overall, the 2009 National Health Interview Survey of 88,446 adults showed that adult immunization rates for influenza, hepatitis B, pertussis, and shingles increased by small proportions, compared with the previous year, while pneumococcal disease coverage dropped slightly. Moreover, large racial disparities persisted for influenza immunization, with lower proportions of African Americans and Hispanics receiving the vaccine than whites. (Source: Rheumatology News)

Vaccine Against Herpes Zoster Effective in 50- to 59-Year-Olds

Rheumatology News — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 23:00:00 +0100

ATLANTA – The shingles vaccine Zostavax significantly reduced the incidence of herpes zoster and was generally well tolerated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase III trial involving more than 22,000 adults aged 50-59 years. (Source: Rheumatology News)

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Varicella Virus Shed After Herpes Zoster Vaccination

Rheumatology News — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 23:00:00 +0100

NEW ORLEANS – Varicella zoster virus DNA was detected in subjects' saliva for a month after immunization with the Zostavax herpes zoster vaccine in a prospective study. Genotypic analysis demonstrated that the varicella zoster virus that was present in saliva was indeed the Zostavax live attenuated vaccine virus, Dr. Catherine M. DiGiorgio said at the meeting. (Source: Rheumatology News)

FDA expands approval of shingles vaccine

Modern Medicine — Wed, 30 Mar 2011 17:54:19 +0100

FDA has approved an expanded age indication for Zoster Vaccine Live, (Zostavax, Merck) for the prevention of herpes zoster, commonly known as shingles, in adults ages 50 years and older. (Source: Modern Medicine)

Rite Aid Pharmacists Can Now Vaccinate Patients 50 And Older Against Shingles After FDA Lowers Age Eligibility

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 30 Mar 2011 17:00:00 +0100

Rite Aid immunizing pharmacists at more than 2,100 stores can now vaccinate patients over the age of 50 against shingles. On March 24, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) expanded the age eligibility for the shingles vaccine, Zostavax, which previously was only approved for patients over the age of 60. "The new FDA recommendation means that Rite Aid pharmacists can now help a much wider range of patients protect themselves from this painful nerve disease," said Robert Thompson, Executive Vice President of Pharmacy for Rite Aid... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Rite Aid provides shingles vaccine

Health News - UPI.com — Wed, 30 Mar 2011 01:36:02 +0100

CAMP HILL, Pa., March 29 (UPI) -- Officials at the U.S. drug store chain Rite Aid say more than 2,100 of the chain's 4,700 stores will vaccinate patients age 50 and older against shingles. (Source: Health News - UPI.com)

Zostavax earns expanded approval

Modern Medicine — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 23:00:00 +0100

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the use of Zostavax (Merck), a live attenuated Varicella zoster virus vaccine, for the prevention of shingles in people ages 50 to 59 years old. The drug previously was approved for use in people ages 60 and older. (Source: Modern Medicine)

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March 24, 2011 Approval Letter - Zostavax

What's New at CBER — Mon, 28 Mar 2011 14:35:00 +0100

to include safety and efficacy data to support a label change for the use of ZOSTAVAX in individuals 50 to 59 years of age. (Source: What's New at CBER)

Expanded approval for shingles vaccine

Health Facts and Fears — Sun, 27 Mar 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Varicella zoster virus (VZV), the pathogen that causes chickenpox when first encountered in early childhood, can reawaken decades later and cause the painful skin eruption known as shingles. (Source: Health Facts and Fears)

Zostavax Vaccine to Prevent Shingles - FDA Approval

Disabled World — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 20:19:36 +0100

FDA Approves Zostavax Vaccine to Prevent Shingles in Individuals 50 to 59 Years of Age. (Source: Disabled World)

Merck's Shingles Vaccine Zostavax FDA Approved For Younger Patients

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 17:00:00 +0100

Merck's Zostavax, a drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to assist in the prevention of shingles for people over 60, has now been approved for those born later and can now be prescribed to persons 50 years of age and older. Shingles is characterized by a rash of blisters, which generally develop in a band on one side of the body and can cause severe pain that may last for weeks, and in some people, for months or years after the episode. After you get chickenpox, the virus remains inactive (becomes dormant) in certain nerves in the body... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

FDA Expands Indication for Zostavax, Merck's Shingles Vaccine, to Include Adults Ages 50 to 59

Drugs.com - New Drug Approvals — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 14:03:33 +0100

WHITEHOUSE STATION, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Mar 24, 2011 - Merck, known as MSD outside the United States and Canada, announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved an expanded age indication for Zostavax (Zoster... (Source: Drugs.com - New Drug Approvals)

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FDA Approves Zostavax Vaccine To Prevent Shingles In Individuals 50 To 59 Years Of Age

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 09:00:00 +0100

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) today approved the use of Zostavax, a live attenuated virus vaccine, for the prevention of shingles in individuals 50 to 59 years of age. Zostavax is already approved for use in individuals 60 years of age and older. In the United States shingles affects approximately 200,000 healthy people between the ages of 50 and 59, per year. It is a disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is a virus in the herpes family and the same virus that causes chickenpox. After an attack of chickenpox, the virus lies dormant in certain nerves in the body... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

FDA: Shingles Vaccine OK at Age 50 and Up

MedicineNet Skin General — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 07:00:00 +0100

Title: FDA: Shingles Vaccine OK at Age 50 and UpCategory: Health NewsCreated: 3/25/2011 11:00:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 3/25/2011 (Source: MedicineNet Skin General)

Shingles Vaccine OK at Age 50 and Up

eMedicineHealth.com — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 07:00:00 +0100

FDA: Shingles Vaccine OK at Age 50 and Up (Source: eMedicineHealth.com)

U.S. Shingles Vaccine Approval Expanded

Pharmacy News - Doctors Lounge — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100

To include people in their 50s (Source: Pharmacy News - Doctors Lounge)

US FDA approves Zostavax vaccine to prevent shingles in individuals 50 to 59 years of age

NeLM - News — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Source: US Food and Drug Administration Area: News The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has extended the marketing authorisation for Zostavax vaccine (a live attenuated virus vaccine) to include use in individuals aged 50 to 59 years of age. The product has previously been approved for the prevention of shingles in individuals 60 years of age and older. According to the US FDA report, approval of the product in this age group of patients was based on a study involving approximately 22,000 people who had been randomised to receive Zostavax vaccine or placebo. The study showed that Zostavax reduced the risk of developing shingles by approximately 70%. (Source: NeLM - News)

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Late-breaking news: FDA expands approval of shingles vaccine

Modern Medicine — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Shingles Vaccine Approved for Adults Aged 50 to 59

Physician's First Watch current issue — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100

(Source: Physician's First Watch current issue)

FDA Expands Indication for ZOSTAVAX®, Merck's Shingles Vaccine,to Include Adults Ages 50 to 59

Merck.com - Product News — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100

(Source: Merck.com - Product News)

FDA expands approval of shingles vaccine

Modern Medicine — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100

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FDA Expands Indication for ZOSTAVAX(R), Mercks Shingles Vaccine, to Include Adults Ages 50 to 59

HSMN NewsFeed — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 23:01:52 +0100

WHITEHOUSE STATION, N.J.--(Healthcare Sales & Marketing Network)-- Merck (NYSE:MRK ), known as MSD outside the United States and Canada, announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved an expanded age indication for ZOSTAVAX&r... Biopharmaceuticals, FDAMerck, ZOSTAVAX, Zoster Vaccine, herpes zoster, shingles (Source: HSMN NewsFeed)

FDA Okays Shingles Vaccine for Younger Age Group

MedPage Today Public Health — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 21:17:54 +0100

WASHINGTON (MedPage Today) -- The FDA has approved use of the varicella zoster vaccine Zostavax in patients ages 50 to 59. (Source: MedPage Today Public Health)

FDA approves Zostavax vaccine to prevent shingles in individuals 50 to 59 years of age

Food and Drug Administration — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 21:04:00 +0100

Medical Minute: The Recurrence Of Shingles Without Vaccination

Thu, 24 Mar 2011 18:40:12 +0100

WBZ's Dr. Murray Feingold talks about shingles and the possibility of its return without vaccination. (Source: WBZ-TV - Breaking News, Weather and Sports for Boston, Worcester and New Hampshire)

FDA: Shingles Vaccine OK at Age 50 and Up

WebMD Health — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 05:00:00 +0100

The FDA today approved Merck's Zostavax shingles vaccine for 50-somethings. The vaccine was already approved for people age 60 and older. (Source: WebMD Health)

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U.S. Shingles Vaccine Approval Expanded

Modern Medicine — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100

(Source: Modern Medicine)

FDA Expands Indication for ZOSTAVAX®, Merck's Shingles Vaccine,to Include Adults Ages 50 to 59

Merck.com - Research and Development News — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100

(Source: Merck.com - Research and Development News)

Director's Comments: Shingles Vaccine's Success & Adoption

What's New on MedlinePlus — Wed, 23 Mar 2011 17:37:02 +0100

Listen to the NLM Director's Comments on "Shingles Vaccine's Success & Adoption". The transcript is also available. A study recently published in the Journal of the American Medical Association suggests the shingles rate among adults after age 60 comparatively declines 55 percent if persons receive a shingles vaccination... (Source: What's New on MedlinePlus)

Evaluation of the incidence of herpes zoster after concomitant administration of zoster vaccine and polysaccharide pneumococcal vaccine.

Vaccine — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100

In this study, we found no evidence of an increased risk of HZ in the population receiving zoster vaccine and pneumococcal vaccine concomitantly. The revision of the product information needs to be carefully assessed to avoid introducing barriers to patients and providers who are interested in these two important vaccines. PMID: 21435407 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Vaccine)

Vaccination for preventing postherpetic neuralgia.

Herpes — Sat, 19 Mar 2011 08:00:06 +0100

Authors: Chen N, Li Q, Zhang Y, Zhou M, Zhou D, He L Herpes zoster virus vaccine was recommended for the prevention of herpes zoster and its sequelae by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) in 2006. To date the efficacy and safety of vaccination for preventing the most common complication of zoster, postherpetic neuralgia, has not been systematically reviewed. PMID: 21412911 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Herpes)

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Real-World Effectiveness of Herpes Zoster Vaccine

Medscape Today Headlines — Wed, 16 Mar 2011 10:40:39 +0100

Is the herpes zoster vaccine as effective in the community as it has been in controlled trials? Journal Watch (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Genotype of Varicella-Zoster Virus Isolates in South Korea.

Herpes — Wed, 16 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Kim KH, Choi YJ, Song KH, Park WB, Jeon JH, Park SW, Kim HB, Kim NJ, Oh MD The information about genotype of varicella-zoster virus (VZV) is useful to monitor outbreak of vaccine strains. However, in South Korea, where varicella vaccine has been introduced in 1988, there is limited data about genotype of VZV. VZV were isolated from vesicular lesions of patients with herpes zoster or varicella in South Korea between January 2007 and June 2009. DNAs were purified from single passage isolates. The genotype was determined, by the sequence analysis of open reading frame (ORF) 22. PstI restriction enzyme site in ORF 38 and BglI restriction enzyme site in ORF 54 were evaluated by restriction enzyme analysis. Forty-four patients with herpes zoster and nine patients with varicella were...

Clinical Trials Update: March. 11, 2011

The Doctors Lounge - Health News — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 16:10:00 +0100

Female Low Sex Drive Shingles Vaccine Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) (Source: The Doctors Lounge - Health News)

Herpes Zoster Vaccine Proves Effective in Real World

Clinical Neurology News — Tue, 01 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100

The herpes zoster vaccine reduced the incidence of the disease by 55% in real-world clinical practice, according to a recent report. This finding, from a retrospective cohort study involving more than 303,000 healthy, community-dwelling adults aged 60 and older from diverse backgrounds, confirms and extends the results of clinical trials that found the vaccine effective under idealized conditions. (Source: Clinical Neurology News)

Herpes Zoster Vaccine Effective in Real-World Practice

Rheumatology News — Tue, 01 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100

The herpes zoster vaccine reduced the incidence of the disease by 55% in real-world clinical practice. This finding, from a retrospective cohort study involving more than 303,000 healthy, community-dwelling adults aged 60 and older from diverse backgrounds, confirms and extends the results of clinical trials that found the vaccine effective under idealized conditions. In addition, the cohort study found further benefits that had not been shown before: The herpes zoster vaccine also decreased the rate of ophthalmic herpes, and it was effective in patients with underlying chronic diseases that were feared to interfere with their immune function. (Source: Rheumatology News)

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Shingles Vaccine: Effective but Underused

Sound Medicine — Sat, 19 Feb 2011 04:00:01 +0100

What if you heard about a vaccine that could prevent an extremely painful, long-lasting condition. Would you get it? For a lot of people, it turns out that the answer is: "only if it's cheap and easy." And when it comes to the shingles vaccine, which is effective at preventing 50% of shingles cases, it is neither cheap nor easy to obtain. Shingles is caused by varicella-zoster virus, the sam.... (Source: Sound Medicine)

Herpes zoster vaccine on back order

Modern Medicine — Thu, 17 Feb 2011 18:21:26 +0100

Less than 1 month after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention?s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommended that most Americans aged 60 years and older get vaccinated to prevent herpes zoster, the vaccine (Zostavax, Merck) is on back order. (Source: Modern Medicine)

Clinical Trials Update: Feb. 17, 2011

The Doctors Lounge - Health News — Thu, 17 Feb 2011 16:14:00 +0100

Shingles Vaccine Rheumatoid Arthritis Overactive Bladder (Source: The Doctors Lounge - Health News)

Vaccine may help patients avoid herpes zoster recurrence

Modern Medicine — Tue, 15 Feb 2011 21:16:21 +0100

Recurrences of herpes zoster may be more common in immunocompetent adults than once thought, according to a study published in the February issue of Mayo Clinic Proceedings, Newswise reported. (Source: Modern Medicine)

Medical Minute: Shingles Vaccine

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 20:31:19 +0100

WBZ's Dr. Murray Feingold discusses the importance of the shingles vaccine. (Source: WBZ-TV - Breaking News, Weather and Sports for Boston, Worcester and New Hampshire)

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Vaccine may help patients avoid herpes zoster recurrence

Drug Topics - Clinical News — Tue, 15 Feb 2011 18:37:13 +0100

Major Depressive Disorder and Immunity to Varicella-Zoster Virus in the Elderly.

Brain, Behavior, and Immunity — Mon, 14 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100

The objective of this study was to evaluate the association between major depression and a disease-relevant immunologic response, namely varicella-zoster virus (VZV)-specific immunity, in elderly adults. A cross-sectional cohort study was conducted in 104 elderly community dwelling adults ⩾ 60 years of age who were enrolled in the Depression Substudy of the Shingles Prevention Study, a double blind, placebo-controlled vaccine efficacy trial. Fifty-two subjects had a current major depressive disorder, and 52 age- and sex-matched controls had no history of depression or any mental illness. VZV-specific cell-mediated immunity (VZV-CMI) was measured by VZV responder cell frequency (VZV-RCF) and interferon- enzyme-linked immunospot (ELISPOT) assays, and antibody to VZV was measured by an enzy...

Klobuchar Urges FDA to Address Shortage of Shingles Vaccine

Drugs.com - Pharma News — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 13:26:38 +0100

From Congressional Documents & Publications (February 10, 2011) Washington, D.C. -Following reports that a new, highly recommended shingles vaccine is in short supply, U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar today sent a letter to Food and Drug... (Source: Drugs.com - Pharma News)

SUPERVALU In-Store Pharmacies Currently Have Ample Supply Of Shingles Vaccinations

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 08:00:00 +0100

As part of its commitment to provide customers with simple, convenient and affordable health and wellness solutions, SUPERVALU® (NYSE: SVU) continues to offer shingles vaccinations at select in-store pharmacies within the company's nationwide family of grocery stores, including Acme®, Albertsons®, Cub Foods®, Farm Fresh®, Jewel-Osco®, Shaw's/Star Market™, Shop 'n Save®, and Shoppers Food & Pharmacy®... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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Waiting list for shingles vaccine growing

CBC | Health — Thu, 10 Feb 2011 11:26:50 +0100

The clinic in Charlottetown that delivers vaccines against a painful rash known as shingles has not had any since December. (Source: CBC | Health)

People Recently Immunized Against Shingles May Transmit Herpes Zoster

Medscape Dermatology Headlines — Thu, 10 Feb 2011 00:14:36 +0100

People who get vaccinated with the herpes zoster vaccine Zostavax to prevent shingles can shed the virus in their saliva for weeks afterward, according to research presented here at the 69th annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology. Reuters Health Information (Source: Medscape Dermatology Headlines)

Vaccine may help patients avoid herpes zoster recurrence

Modern Medicine — Wed, 09 Feb 2011 18:01:16 +0100

Recurrences of herpes zoster may be more common in immunocompetent adults than once thought, according to a study published in the February issue of Mayo Clinic Proceedings, as reported in Newswise. (Source: Modern Medicine)

Health Highlights: Feb. 9, 2011

The Doctors Lounge - Health News — Wed, 09 Feb 2011 16:30:00 +0100

Health Agencies Probe Possible H1N1 Flu Vaccine/Narcolepsy Link FDA Questions Companies on Follow-Up Drug Studies Shingles Vaccine Shortage May Continue Until Spring FDA Speeds Approval Process for Some Medical Devices (Source: The Doctors Lounge - Health News)

New shingles vaccine in short supply

USATODAY.com Health — Wed, 09 Feb 2011 00:41:00 +0100

Less than a month after the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended most Americans over 60 get vaccinated to prevent shingles, ... (Source: USATODAY.com Health)

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Shortage Delays Shingles Vaccine: Shot Urged for Adults 60 and Up May Not Be Available Until April

RWJF News Digest - Public Health — Wed, 09 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Less than a month after the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended most Americans 60 and older get vaccinated to prevent shingles, the vaccine is in short supply. (Source: RWJF News Digest - Public Health)

Clinical Trials Update: Feb. 7, 2011

The Doctors Lounge - Health News — Mon, 07 Feb 2011 16:22:00 +0100

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Menstrual Migraines Shingles Vaccine (Source: The Doctors Lounge - Health News)

Shingles Myth Busted: It Does Come Back

WebMD Health — Fri, 04 Feb 2011 22:20:57 +0100

Shingles is supposed to be a one-time event. But a new study finds that 6.2% of people who suffer a shingles attack suffer at least one more. 85% might have benefitted from shingles vaccination. (Source: WebMD Health)

The New Old Age: Shingles: A Few Helpful Links

NYT — Wed, 02 Feb 2011 21:38:43 +0100

Where to find more information on shingles and the shingles vaccine. (Source: NYT)

Clinical Trials Update: Feb. 1, 2011

The Doctors Lounge - Health News — Tue, 01 Feb 2011 15:41:00 +0100

Shingles Vaccine Iron Deficiency Anemia Fibromyalgia (Source: The Doctors Lounge - Health News)

Efficacy of live zoster vaccine in preventing zoster and postherpetic neuralgia

Journal of Internal Medicine — Tue, 01 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Abstract. Declining cell‐mediated immunity to varicella zoster virus (VZV) in elderly individuals results in virus reactivation manifest by zoster (shingles) and postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). To prevent virus reactivation, a new VZV vaccine (Zostavax, Merck) that boosts cell‐mediated immunity to VZV was developed. The 3‐year Shingles Prevention Study showed that Zostavax significantly reduced burden of disease due to zoster and PHN. Despite its cost‐effectiveness for adults ages 65 to 75 years, as determined in the US, Canada and UK, less than 2% of immunocompetent adults over age 60 years in the US were immunized in 2007. This was due to a combination of lack of patient awareness of the vaccine, physicians’ uncertainty about the duration of protection, and different cost‐sh...

The New Old Age: Readers' Questions: The Shingles Vaccine

NYT — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 22:09:25 +0100

Following up readers' comments and questions about the shingles vaccine. (Source: NYT)

Herpes Zoster Recurrences More Frequent Than Previously Reported

Mayo Clinic Proceedings — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION: Rates of HZ recurrence appear to be comparable to rates of first HZ occurrence in immunocompetent individuals, suggesting that recurrence is sufficiently common to warrant investigation of vaccine prevention in this group. (Source: Mayo Clinic Proceedings)

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Few Older Adults Receive Herpes Zoster Vaccination

Modern Medicine — Thu, 27 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Although the herpes zoster vaccine was approved for prevention of shingles by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2006 and recommended for adults aged 60 and older, uptake for the preventive vaccine remains well under 10 percent, according to research published in the February issue of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine. (Source: Modern Medicine)

Modelling the impact of a combined varicella and zoster vaccination programme on the epidemiology of varicella zoster virus in England.

Herpes — Thu, 27 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100

This study updates previous work on modelling the incidence of varicella and Herpes Zoster (HZ) following the introduction of childhood vaccination. The updated model includes new data on age-specific contact patterns, as well as data on the efficacy of zoster vaccination in the elderly and allows for HZ among vaccinees. The current study also looks at two-dose varicella childhood programmes, and assesses the combined impact of varicella vaccination in childhood and zoster vaccination of the elderly. The results suggest that a two-dose schedule is likely to reduce the incidence of varicella to very low levels, provided first dose coverage is around 90% and second dose coverage is in excess of 70%. Single dose varicella vaccination programmes are expected to result in large numbers of break...

Vaccine-related varicella-zoster rash in a hospitalized immunocompetent patient

American Journal of Infection Control — Thu, 27 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100

An immunocompetent health care worker with no known history of varicella-zoster virus (VZV) disease was exposed to a patient with herpes zoster and was immunized 2 days later. Twenty-seven days after receiving the varicella vaccine, while hospitalized, she developed a disseminated rash. This exposure and subsequent development of symptoms posed infection control challenges. A polymerase chain reaction analysis of her vesicular fluid was positive for vaccine-type VZV, and a blood specimen collected before vaccination demonstrated a positive VZV titer by the fluorescent antibody to membrane antigen test. To the best of our knowledge, there have been no previous reports of an immunocompetent seropositive person developing vaccine-type VZV after receiving the vaccine. (Source: American Journal...

Vaccine-related varicella-zoster rash in a hospitalized immunocompetent patient.

Herpes — Mon, 24 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Bernstein P, Furuya Y, Steinberg S, Scully B, Larussa P, Gershon AA An immunocompetent health care worker with no known history of varicella-zoster virus (VZV) disease was exposed to a patient with herpes zoster and was immunized 2 days later. Twenty-seven days after receiving the varicella vaccine, while hospitalized, she developed a disseminated rash. This exposure and subsequent development of symptoms posed infection control challenges. A polymerase chain reaction analysis of her vesicular fluid was positive for vaccine-type VZV, and a blood specimen collected before vaccination demonstrated a positive VZV titer by the fluorescent antibody to membrane antigen test. To the best of our knowledge, there have been no previous reports of an immunocompetent seropositive person d...

Hot Topic: Herpes Zoster Vaccine: Safe and Effective in the Shingles Prevention Study

AccessMedicine Updates — Sat, 22 Jan 2011 03:30:02 +0100

(Source: AccessMedicine Updates)

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Ustekinumab and Herpes Zoster.

Herpes — Sat, 22 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Ustekinumab is probably a risk factor for developing HZ. Anti-HZ vaccination prior to ustekinumab treatment should be considered. PMID: 21266799 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Herpes)

Vital Signs: Aging: Shingles Vaccine Shows Promise for Older Adults

NYT Health — Fri, 21 Jan 2011 18:02:07 +0100

A California study found a 55 percent reduction in incidence of the painful condition among people 60 and older who had been inoculated. (Source: NYT Health)

Herpes Zoster Vaccination Among Adults Aged 60 Years and Older, in the U.S., 2008

American Journal of Preventive Medicine — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 20:52:13 +0100

Conclusions: By 2008, HZ vaccination coverage was 6.7%. The coverage level was low among all groups, but it was lowest among minority groups. Increased efforts are needed to remove barriers and to enable HZ vaccination among all adults aged ≥60 years. (Source: American Journal of Preventive Medicine)

KHN Column: A Defense Of High-Risk Insurance Pools - From One Critic To The Others; Few Opt For Vaccine To Prevent Painful Shingles, NPR Reports

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 13:00:00 +0100

KHN Column: A Defense Of High-Risk Insurance Pools - From One Critic To The Others In his latest Kaiser Health News column, Harold Pollack writes: "From the beginning, I've been a persistent, occasionally grouchy critic of the high-risk insurance pools set up in the new federal health law. The title of my recent commentary in the Journal of General Internal Medicine, 'Too Little And Thus Too Late,' summarized my general view. I'm not retracting any of these tough assessments... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Shingles Vaccine for Adults: Side Effects, When to Get the Shot, and More

WebMD Health — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 04:00:00 +0100

WebMD talks about who needs a shingles vaccine, when to get it, side effects, and explains more about the vaccine. (Source: WebMD Health)

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The epidemiology of herpes zoster in 226 children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Pediatric Blood and Cancer — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100

ConclusionAlmost one third of the seropositive children had HZ during primary chemotherapy. Of those treated on high risk protocols more than half had one or more eruptions during the course of treatment. The risk of complicated HZ is small, but prolonged intensive chemotherapy can lead to considerable morbidity from repeated eruptions. Attempts to improve immunity by vaccination after attaining remission seem warranted. Pediatr Blood Cancer © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. (Source: Pediatric Blood and Cancer)

The epidemiology of herpes zoster in 226 children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

Herpes — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION: Almost one third of the seropositive children had HZ during primary chemotherapy. Of those treated on high risk protocols more than half had one or more eruptions during the course of treatment. The risk of complicated HZ is small, but prolonged intensive chemotherapy can lead to considerable morbidity from repeated eruptions. Attempts to improve immunity by vaccination after attaining remission seem warranted. Pediatr Blood Cancer © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc. PMID: 21254379 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Herpes)

Few Opt For Vaccine To Prevent Painful Shingles

NPR Health and Science — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 10:37:00 +0100

A million Americans get shingles every year, and many are left with pain that lasts months and years after the distinctive red rash goes away. While there's a vaccine to prevent the painful viral infection, only about 10 percent of the 50 million people who should get it actually have.» E-Mail This » Add to Del.icio.us (Source: NPR Health and Science)

Shingles Vaccine Associated With 55% Reduced Risk of Disease

Disabled World — Thu, 13 Jan 2011 22:55:52 +0100

Receiving the herpes zoster vaccine was associated with a 55 percent reduced risk of developing shingles, according to a Kaiser Permanente study of 300,000 people that appears in the current issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association. (Source: Disabled World)

CDC: Save Yourself a lot of Pain and Get Shingles Vaccine; Adults Over 60 Cut Risk by 55%

RWJF News Digest - Public Health — Thu, 13 Jan 2011 14:22:04 +0100

Everyone over 60 should be vaccinated against shingles, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends in a report Tuesday. Nearly one out of three people in the USA will develop shingles, a painful and potentially serious condition also known as herpes zoster, the CDC says. Yet only 10% of those 60 and older—the group most at risk for shingles—got the vaccine (Zostavax) in 2009. (Source: RWJF News Digest - Public Health)

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Zoster vaccine associated with lower risk of shingles in older adults

ScienceDaily Headlines — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 19:00:00 +0100

Vaccination for herpes zoster, a painful rash commonly known as shingles, among a large group of older adults was associated with a reduced risk of this condition, regardless of age, race or the presence of chronic diseases, according to a new study. (Source: ScienceDaily Headlines)

Most Seniors Don't Get Shingles Vaccination, CDC Finds

Health Behavior News Service — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 18:23:43 +0100

01/11/2011, American Journal of Preventive Medicine, Less than 7 percent of U.S. seniors chose to receive the shingles vaccination as of 2008, finds a new study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (Source: Health Behavior News Service)

Health Buzz: Shingles Vaccine Is Effective, but Underused

U.S. News - Health — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 17:33:00 +0100

A school nutrition experiment: junk food carrots; 5 kid-friendly foods with iron. (Source: U.S. News - Health)

The New Old Age: Few Takers for the Shingles Vaccine

NYT — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 16:08:46 +0100

The shingles vaccine may be even more effective than first thought, scientists said on Tuesday. So why aren't more of the elderly getting it? (Source: NYT)

Shingles Vaccine Associated With 55 Percent Reduced Risk of Disease

Drugs.com - Pharma News — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 14:05:04 +0100

Kaiser Permanente Research Strengthens National Recommendations PASADENA, Calif., Jan. 11, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Receiving the herpes zoster vaccine was associated with a 55 percent reduced risk of developing shingles, according to a Kaiser... (Source: Drugs.com - Pharma News)

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The New Old Age: Few Takers for the Shingles Vaccine

NYT Health — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 13:39:37 +0100

The shingles vaccine may be even more effective than first thought, scientists said on Tuesday. So why aren't more of the elderly getting it? (Source: NYT Health)

Vaccine For Shingles Ailment Effective -- And Seldom Used, Study Says

Drugs.com - Pharma News — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 13:29:05 +0100

Vaccine For Shingles Ailment Effective -- And Seldom Used, Study Says [The Miami Herald] From Miami Herald (FL) (January 12, 2011) Jan. 12--Jeffrey Dorn is an amateur gardener, so at first he thought the blisters on his left thigh were caused by... (Source: Drugs.com - Pharma News)

Shingles Vaccine Holds Up in Clinic, but Underused (CME/CE, with video)

MedPage Today State Required CME — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 11:13:10 +0100

(MedPage Today) -- The herpes zoster vaccine (Zostavax) effectively reduces shingles risk in real-world use, but few older adults are getting immunized, two separate studies showed. (Source: MedPage Today State Required CME)

Shingles Vaccine Linked To 55 Per Cent Reduction In Disease

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 10:00:00 +0100

Giving people the herpes zoster vaccine was linked to a 55 per cent reduction in risk of developing shingles according to a Kaiser Permanente study involving 300,000 older American GP patients, suggesting that vaccinating eligible people could prevent tens of thousands of cases of shingles in the US. You can read about the retrospective cohort study, led by Dr Hung Fu Tseng, a research scientist with the Kaiser Permanente Department of Research and Evaluation in Pasadena, California, in the 12 January online issue of JAMA... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

MedWorm: Shingles (Herpes Zoster) Vaccine

Improving rates of herpes zoster vaccination with a clinical decision support system in a primary care practice

Controversial Amendments Injected Into Florida Vaccine BillControversial Amendments Injected Into Florida Vaccine Bill

Employment related productivity loss associated with herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia: A 6-month prospective study.

Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus Is Not Just for the ElderlyHerpes Zoster Ophthalmicus Is Not Just for the Elderly

The health and economic burden of chickenpox and herpes zoster in Belgium.

Update on Herpes Zoster Vaccine: Licensure for Persons Aged 50 Through 59 Years [From the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention]

Varicella-zoster virus glycoproteins B and E are major targets of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells reconstituting during zoster after allogeneic transplantation.

Update on Herpes Zoster VaccineUpdate on Herpes Zoster Vaccine

Sequencing and characterization of Varicella Zoster virus vaccine strain SuduVax

Herpes Zoster: Who's at Risk and Who Should be VaccinatedHerpes Zoster: Who's at Risk and Who Should be Vaccinated

Acute Retinal Necrosis After Herpes Zoster Vaccination [Small Case Series]

Update on Herpes Zoster Vaccine: Licensure for Persons Aged 50 Through 59 Years

Update on herpes zoster vaccine: licensure for persons aged 50 through 59 years.

Shortage curbs shingles vaccine expansion

Health Highlights: Nov. 10, 2011

Update on immunizations in adults.

Shingles Vaccine Safe For Use in Adults on Biologic Agents for RA

The use, safety and effectiveness of herpes zoster vaccination in individuals with inflammatory and autoimmune diseases: a longitudinal observational study

Comparing Shingles Incidence and Complication Rates From Medical Record Review and Administrative Database Estimates: How Close Are They?

[Current events in vaccination.]

Health Tip: Getting the Shingles Vaccine

Update on herpes zoster vaccination: A family practitioner's guide.

Herpes zoster infection, vaccination and immunocompromised rheumatology patients

Family history and herpes zoster risk in the era of shingles vaccination

Comparing Shingles Incidence and Complication Rates From Medical Record Review and Administrative Database Estimates: How Close Are They?

Shingles: Preventing and treating this painful skin disease

Contacts with children and young people and adult risk of suffering herpes zoster.

Well Blog: The Minimal Risks of Vaccines

ZOSTAVAX (Zoster Vaccine Live) Injection, Powder, Lyophilized, For Suspension STERILE DILUENT (Sterile Water) Injection [Merck Sharp Dohme Corp.]

Herpes ans Zoster Keratitis

Costly shingles vaccine is in short supply

ACIP Recs Stand: Zoster Vaccine for 60 and Older: Duration of vaccine protection when given before peak age of zoster incidence was a factor for ACIP.

Zostavax (Zoster Vaccine Live) - updated on RxList

The New Old Age: The Fight Against Shingles Falters

Drive to Stem Shingles Meets Few Expectations

Emerging drugs for varicella-zoster virus infections.

Video: CDC considers wider use of shingles vaccine

Herpes zoster in Germany: Quantifying the burden of disease

Herpes zoster in Germany: Quantifying the burden of disease.

Celebrities Can Give Positive Health Behaviors a Shot in the Arm, Really!

Zoster vaccine (Zostavax): a guide to its use in preventing herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia

Adult Immunizations: Update on Recommendations

Herpes Zoster in a Pediatric Patient

ZOSTAVAX (Zoster Vaccine Live) Injection, Powder, Lyophilized, For Suspension STERILE DILUENT (Sterile Water) Injection [Merck Sharp Dohme Corp.]

Shingles vaccine can protect you but it can be hard to find

La Russa prompts shingles vaccine calls

Simultaneous Pneumococcal And Shingles Vaccines Safe - FDA Concerns Challenged

Zoster and Pneumococcal Vaccines May Be Given Concomitantly

Study challenges concerns on effectiveness of administering pneumococcal, shingles vaccines together

Kaiser Permanente Study Challenges Concerns On Effectiveness Of Administering Pneumococcal & Shingles Vaccines Together

FDA Expands Age Range for Shingles Vaccine [Medical News & Perspectives]

Herpes Zoster Vaccine and Older Adults [Letters]

Herpes Zoster Vaccine and Older Adults--Reply [Letters]

Vaccination for preventing postherpetic neuralgia

Adult Immunization Rates Slow to Improve, CDC Finds

Vaccine Against Herpes Zoster Effective in 50- to 59-Year-Olds

Varicella Virus Shed After Herpes Zoster Vaccination

FDA expands approval of shingles vaccine

Rite Aid Pharmacists Can Now Vaccinate Patients 50 And Older Against Shingles After FDA Lowers Age Eligibility

Rite Aid provides shingles vaccine

Zostavax earns expanded approval

March 24, 2011 Approval Letter - Zostavax

Expanded approval for shingles vaccine

Zostavax Vaccine to Prevent Shingles - FDA Approval

Merck's Shingles Vaccine Zostavax FDA Approved For Younger Patients

FDA Expands Indication for Zostavax, Merck's Shingles Vaccine, to Include Adults Ages 50 to 59

FDA Approves Zostavax Vaccine To Prevent Shingles In Individuals 50 To 59 Years Of Age

FDA: Shingles Vaccine OK at Age 50 and Up

Shingles Vaccine OK at Age 50 and Up

U.S. Shingles Vaccine Approval Expanded

US FDA approves Zostavax vaccine to prevent shingles in individuals 50 to 59 years of age

Late-breaking news: FDA expands approval of shingles vaccine

Shingles Vaccine Approved for Adults Aged 50 to 59

FDA Expands Indication for ZOSTAVAX®, Merck's Shingles Vaccine,to Include Adults Ages 50 to 59

FDA expands approval of shingles vaccine

FDA Expands Indication for ZOSTAVAX(R), Mercks Shingles Vaccine, to Include Adults Ages 50 to 59

FDA Okays Shingles Vaccine for Younger Age Group

FDA approves Zostavax vaccine to prevent shingles in individuals 50 to 59 years of age

Medical Minute: The Recurrence Of Shingles Without Vaccination

FDA Expands Indication for ZOSTAVAX(R), Mercks Shingles Vaccine, to Include Adults Ages 50 to 59