MedWorm: Shingles (Herpes Zoster) Vaccine

Black Children At Lower Risk Of Shingles After Chickenpox Vaccine; Genetic Explanation Is Most Likely, Researchers Think

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 09:00:00 +0100

Black children are less likely than white or Asian children to develop shingles (herpes zoster) after receiving the varicella vaccine to prevent chickenpox, reports a study in the March issue of The Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal. The journal is published by Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, a part of Wolters Kluwer Health, a leading provider of information and business intelligence for students, professionals, and institutions in medicine, nursing, allied health, and pharmacy... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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Black Children At Lower Risk Of Shingles After Chickenpox Vaccine; Genetic Explanation Is Most Likely, Researchers Think

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 09:00:00 +0100

Varicella vaccine may protect kids from shingles [HEALTH BRIEFS]

AAP News — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 18:01:27 +0100

(Source: AAP News)

Viruses and Arthritis: New Challenges in Diagnosis, Therapy, and Immunization.

The American Journal of the Medical Sciences — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS:: Chronic viral infections complicate the diagnosis and therapy of inflammatory arthritis. The antitumor necrosis factor alpha biologics have become important therapeutic options for patients with hepatitis C. Vaccination against influenza and herpes zoster are underused in health maintenance of arthritis patients. PMID: 20186043 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The American Journal of the Medical Sciences)

Increasing Incidence of Herpes Zoster among Veterans

Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 20:53:17 +0100

Conclusion. The increasing incidence of herpes zoster in our veteran population and its effect on the quality of life of the veterans validate the need for improved rates of vaccination in this population. (Source: Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue)

Why Is Zoster Vaccine Needed After Shingles?

Consultant Live — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100

A documented anti–varicella-zoster virus (VZV) titer is generally accepted as evidence of protection against VZV infection, and a known case of shingles, such as that described in the Photoclinic case of an older man with ophthalmic zoster (Tran KT, Qualm AS, Shannon MA. CONSULTANT, December 2009, page 767), might reasonably be expected to boost anti-VZV titers in the affected patient. Why then would administration of the zoster vaccine be included in this patient’s treatment plan? (Source: Consultant Live)

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Getting Shingles Vaccine Easier

Drugs.com - Pharma News — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 16:14:54 +0100

[The Columbus Dispatch, Ohio] From Columbus Dispatch (OH) (February 8, 2010) Feb. 8--In theory, people should have scrambled to get the shingles vaccine. The disease is notoriously painful and quite... (Source: Drugs.com - Pharma News)

Shingles vaccination proposed

NHS News Feed — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 10:49:00 +0100

Millions of people in their seventies could be vaccinated against shingles, according to several newspapers. The news is based on a recommendation from the government’s independent committee on immunisation. It says there may be benefits in vaccinating the elderly against the virus that causes the painful skin condition. The Daily Telegraph says a vaccination programme could be in place by late 2010 if it is proven to be cost-effective. What is the basis for these current reports? News coverage has been based on a short statement released by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI). The JCVI is an independent expert advisory committee that gives advice to the government on matters relating to prevention of communicable diseases through immunisation. Any advice given...

Shingles vaccine plan for over 70s

OnMedica Latest News — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

National vaccination plan hinges on securing a good price from manufacturersRelated items from OnMedicaGPs to spearhead swine flu mass vaccinationGPs back smoking crackdown plansRoutine cervical screening saves lives in older womenNHS sets out H1N1 vaccination targetsYoung people warned of sunbed cancer risks (Source: OnMedica Latest News)

Paper round: Monday

OnMedica Latest News — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Shingles vaccines for the elderly, man-boob reductions, and moreRelated items from OnMedicaSleep apnoea may lie behind chronic coughSymptoms don’t reliably predict ovarian cancerHerceptin of benefit in more breast cancer casesDrinkers underestimate harm from alcoholEffective alternative for emergency contraception (Source: OnMedica Latest News)

A step closer to shingles vaccination for those aged 70-79 years

NeLM - News — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Source: Department of Health (DH) Area: News According to a press release from the Department of Health, a shingles vaccination programme for people aged 70-79 years has moved a step closer. The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) recommended that the vaccine should be offered to this age group if it can be bought at a price which makes the programme cost-effective. This recommendation is covered by provisions in the NHS Constitution which mean that if the JCVI recommends a vaccine programme based on an assessment of cost-effectiveness, patients have the right to receive the vaccine on the NHS. Minutes of JCVI's last meeting and the Committee's short statement on this matter can be found at the link below. The press release notes ...

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Shingles vaccination could protect four million older people

Nursing Times Breaking News — Sun, 31 Jan 2010 07:00:00 +0100

If found to be cost-effective, a shingles vaccination programme could be rolled out protect around four million patients aged 70-79. (Source: Nursing Times Breaking News)

Shingles vaccine hope for elderly

BBC News | Health | UK Edition — Sun, 31 Jan 2010 01:02:36 +0100

Millions of people in their 70s could be vaccinated against shingles after the government backs the stance of expert advisers. (Source: BBC News | Health | UK Edition)

Shingles vaccine proposed for all those in their 70s

the Mail online | Health — Sat, 30 Jan 2010 23:56:44 +0100

The Government plans a vaccination programme to protect against shingles. (Source: the Mail online | Health)

Zoster Vaccine (Zostavax): A Review of its Use in Preventing Herpes Zoster and Postherpetic Neuralgia in Older Adults

Drugs — Sat, 30 Jan 2010 14:30:19 +0100

(Source: Drugs)

[Newsdesk] Shingles vaccine: effective but underused

The Lancet Infectious Diseases — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100

In November, the US Food and Drug Administration approved a capsaicin skin patch for the treatment of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), the chronic pain that affects many people in the months after shingles. Great news; however, developments like this make it all the more puzzling that a vaccine that could prevent shingles, is still little used despite having been licensed in the USA and Europe since 2006. (Source: The Lancet Infectious Diseases)

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Paper round: Tuesday

OnMedica Latest News — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100

IT programme's £600m savings, world's smallest mother, and moreRelated items from OnMedicaDelinquency in childhood linked to premature adult deathCarbon footprintScottish drug services receive funding boostPaper round: MondayChickenpox vaccine may also reduce the risk of shingles (Source: OnMedica Latest News)

Chickenpox Vaccine May Protect Kids From Shingles

Medscape Today Headlines — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 16:59:08 +0100

Children who get vaccinated against chickenpox may have a lower risk of developing shingles, U.S. researchers said on Friday. Reuters Health Information (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Chickenpox vaccine may also reduce the risk of shingles

OnMedica Latest News — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Researchers don't know if the protection lasts into adulthoodRelated items from OnMedicaHPA warns of possible measles epidemicHib cases down due to vaccine campaignMeasles programme must be stepped-upMeningitis cases at record low, announces Health Secretary 'MMR should be compulsory', says public health expert (Source: OnMedica Latest News)

Paper round: Monday

OnMedica Latest News — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100

New computer system faces scrap, cancer-causing hamsters, and moreRelated items from OnMedicaIT’S BEHIND YOU?Delinquency in childhood linked to premature adult deathCarbon footprintScottish drug services receive funding boostChickenpox vaccine may also reduce the risk of shingles (Source: OnMedica Latest News)

Chicken pox vaccine reduces shingles risk in kids

ScienceDaily Headlines — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 15:36:18 +0100

A new study found the chicken pox vaccine also reduces the risk of shingles among children. The study used electronic health records to identify and follow 172,000 vaccinated children for two-plus years and found that herpes zoster, known as shingles in adults, is very rare among children who have been vaccinated for chicken pox. This is the largest study of its kind. (Source: ScienceDaily Headlines)

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Chickenpox vaccine reduces incidence of shingles in children

MedWire News - Pediatrics — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 14:53:03 +0100

Children who receive the chickenpox vaccine may be at lower risk for the acute viral skin infection Herpes zoster, also known as shingles, study results suggest. (Source: MedWire News - Pediatrics)

Health headlines: Adoption, school bullies and birth defects

Thrive, Children's Hospital Boston — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 13:00:43 +0100

Other stories we’ve been reading: Are your children nervous about getting shots? This cartoon and iPhone app helps kids with vaccine fears. A new study shows that children who are vaccinated against chicken pox have an increased protection against shingles too. Contrary to negative media stories about adoption, it turns out that most adopted children are healthy and happy. School bullies are also likely to bully their siblings. Baby boys are more likely to have a birth defect from a mother’s bug spray use and obese children may be at a higher risk for back pain. Related posts:Health headlines: School lunches, no television and adaptive sportsHealth headlines: Poisonous caulk, evolving patient technology and babies’ tantrumsMassachusetts takes action on school bullying (Source: Thri...

Chicken Pox Vaccine May Also Reduce Risk Of Shingles Among Children

Health News from Medical News Today — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 09:00:00 +0100

Herpes zoster, also known as shingles, is very rare among children who have been vaccinated against chicken pox, according to a Kaiser Permanente study in the December issue of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Journal. The study, the largest of its kind, used electronic health records to identify more than 170,000 children vaccinated with the varicella (chicken pox) vaccine from 2002 to 2008 in Kaiser Permanente's Southern California region, then followed children for an average of two and a half years to identify the occurrence of herpes zoster... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Chicken Pox Vaccine May Also Reduce Risk Of Shingles Among Children

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 09:00:00 +0100

Chicken Pox Vaccine Reduces Shingles Risk In Kids -- Study Of 172,000 Kids Used EHRs

Health News from Medical News Today — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 08:00:00 +0100

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Chicken Pox Vaccine Reduces Shingles Risk In Kids -- Study Of 172,000 Kids Used EHRs

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 08:00:00 +0100

Childhood Shingles Not a Given with Chicken Pox Vaccine (CME/CE, with audio)

MedPage Today Infectious Disease — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 22:53:58 +0100

Children vaccinated against the varicella zoster virus that causes chicken pox are no more likely (MedPage Today) -- and may be less likely -- to get childhood shingles than those who are not vaccinated, researchers affirmed. (Source: MedPage Today Infectious Disease)

Chickenpox shot may protect kids from shingles

CBC | Health — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 19:56:36 +0100

Children who are vaccinated against chickenpox may gain some protection against shingles, a U.S. study suggests. (Source: CBC | Health)

Chicken pox vaccine reduces shingles risk in kids: study

Xinhuanet Chinaview Health — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 18:02:26 +0100

WASHINGTON, Dec. 4 (Xinhua) -- Herpes zoster, also known as ... (Source: Xinhuanet Chinaview Health)

Chicken Pox Shot Protects Against Shingles, Too

Forbes.com Health News — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 14:00:00 +0100

Vaccinated children less likely to get herpes zoster virus, study finds (Source: Forbes.com Health News)

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Chicken Pox Shot Protects Against Shingles, Too

MedlinePlus Health News — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 14:00:00 +0100

Vaccinated children less likely to get herpes zoster virus, study finds Source: HealthDay Related MedlinePlus Topics: Chickenpox, Childhood Immunization, Shingles (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)

Chickenpox vaccine may protect kids from shingles

Reuters: Health — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 05:26:32 +0100

CHICAGO (Reuters) - Children who get vaccinated against chickenpox may have a lower risk of developing shingles, a painful rash caused by the chickenpox virus, U.S. researchers said on Friday. (Source: Reuters: Health)

Chicken pox vaccine reduces shingles risk in kids -- study of 172,000 kids used EHRs

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Kaiser Permanente) A new Kaiser Permanente study found the chicken pox vaccine also reduces the risk of shingles among children. The study used electronic health records to identify and follow 172,000 vaccinated children for two-plus years and found that herpes zoster, known as shingles in adults, is very rare among children who have been vaccinated for chicken pox. This is the largest study of its kind. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Chickenpox vaccine reduces incidence of shingles in children

MedWire News - Dermatology — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Children who receive the chickenpox vaccine may be at lower risk for the acute viral skin infection Herpes zoster, also known as shingles, study results suggest. (Source: MedWire News - Dermatology)

Chickenpox Vaccination May Be Reducing Shingles Risk In Kids

Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 11:00:00 +0100

Vaccination to prevent chickenpox (varicella) appears to have an added benefit for children a reduced risk of shingles (herpes zoster)... (Source: Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today)

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Chickenpox Vaccination May Be Reducing Shingles Risk In Kids

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 11:00:00 +0100

Vaccination to prevent chickenpox (varicella) appears to have an added benefit for children a reduced risk of shingles (herpes zoster). That's the finding of a study in the November issue of The Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal, published by Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, a part of Wolters Kluwer Health, a leading provider of information and business intelligence for students, professionals, and institutions in medicine, nursing, allied health, and pharmacy... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Herpes zoster vaccine cost effective in Belgium

PharmacoEconomics and Outcomes News — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 16:10:48 +0100

(Source: PharmacoEconomics and Outcomes News)

Varicella zoster virus vaccine: Herpes zoster keratouveitis and ocular hypertension: case report

Reactions — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 14:04:51 +0100

(Source: Reactions)

Cost Effectiveness of Herpes Zoster Vaccine in Canada

PharmacoEconomics — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 15:59:40 +0100

(Source: PharmacoEconomics)

Pseudolymphomatous reaction to varicella zoster virus vaccination: role of viral in situ hybridization

Journal of Cutaneous Pathology — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

We report a 61-year-old female on immunosuppressant medications for rheumatoid arthritis who presented with a subcutaneous nodule at the site of a recent herpes zoster vaccination. Histopathological examination revealed a dense nodular and interstitial mononuclear infiltrate throughout the mid and deep dermis with extension into the superficial subcutaneous fat. Immunohistochemical staining revealed an admixture of T-cells and B-cells, with a predominance of T-cells. These findings are consistent with a pseudolymphoma (PL), a reactive inflammatory disorder that can resemble cutaneous lymphoma and has rarely been described in herpes infections and post-herpetic scars. In situ hybridization studies for VZV were performed and highlighted occasional deep fibroblasts with nuclear positivity for...

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Zoster Risk Declined in Young Varicella Vaccinees

Pediatric News — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

VAIL, COLO. — The risk of herpes zoster in children under age 10 years who've been vaccinated against varicella was 4- to 12-fold less than in those with naturally acquired varicella in a large population-based study. (Source: Pediatric News)

Zoster Vaccine Could Have Off-Label Use, Expert Says

Pediatric News — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

VAIL, COLO. — Giving herpes zoster vaccine to children who are immunocompromised, or are about to become so, is an off-label use that is nonetheless worthy of strong consideration in selected cases. (Source: Pediatric News)

Epidemiological features and costs of herpes zoster in taiwan: a national study 2000 to 2006.

Acta Derm Venereol A... — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Jih JS, Chen YJ, Lin MW, Chen YC, Chen TJ, Huang YL, Chen CC, Lee DD, Chang YT, Wang WJ, Liu HN To analyse the epidemiological characteristics and related costs of herpes zoster in Taiwan, a nationally representative cohort of 1,000,000 individuals from the National Health Insurance register was followed up from 2000 to 2006 and their claims data analysed. Overall, 34,280 patients were diagnosed with zoster (incidence 4.89/1000 person-years) and 2944 patients (8.6%) developed post-herpetic neuralgia 3 months after the start of the zoster rash (incidence 0.42/1000 person-years). People with older age, diabetes, and immunocompromising conditions were at higher risk of developing zoster and post-herpetic neuralgia. The overall hospitalization rate for zoster was 16.1 cases per 10...

Neurologic manifestations of varicella zoster virus infections

Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 10:45:05 +0100

Abstract Varicella zoster virus (VZV) causes acute viral exanthema in childhood, becomes latent, and can reactivate years later to produce neurologic disease. Primary VZV infection is associated with acute cerebellitis and stroke, particularly in childhood. VZV reactivation may result in neuropathy, myelitis, stroke, and encephalitis, the latter two syndromes the result of small and large vessel vasculopathy. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical to minimize morbidity in herpes zoster as well as morbidity and death in VZV vasculitis and encephalitis. Detection of anti-VZV antibodies in cerebrospinal fluid is the most sensitive method of diagnosing varicella infection of the nervous system. Despite the advent of the VZV vaccine, varicella remains a significant cause o...

Interferon-gamma release assay: A simple method for detection of varicella-zoster virus-specific cell-mediated immunity.

Journal of Immunological Methods — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Otani N, Baba K, Okuno T Herpes zoster is closely related to decreased varicella-zoster virus (VZV)-specific cell-mediated immunity. We validated a new assay for measuring VZV-specific immunity. We cultured the whole blood of healthy subjects with live attenuated VZV vaccine. Culture supernatants were harvested at 24-h intervals and assayed for interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The 48-h culture was suitable for estimating IFN-gamma release. IFN-gamma production was stable after standing for at least 4h at room temperature. IFN-gamma production was observed in whole blood from subjects with recent VZV infection, but not in blood from subjects naïve to the virus. Thus, the IFN-gamma release assay may be useful as a new surrogate a...

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Transmission of varicella vaccine virus, Japan.

Emerging Infectious Diseases — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100

We report secondary transmission of the vOka strain from an immunocompetent girl with a history of varicella vaccination to her healthy susceptible brother. PMID: 19861086 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Emerging Infectious Diseases)

Stop shingles in its tracks.

The Journal of Family Practice — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Lang PO, Hasso Y, Michel JP Initiate antiviral treatment as soon as possible; rapid resolution of acute pain and reduction in the development of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) are most likely when therapy is started within 72 hours of the outbreak. Discuss herpes zoster (HZ) vaccination with healthy patients 60 years of age and older during their first office visit; the vaccine markedly reduces the incidence of HZ and PHN. Do not prescribe tricyclic antidepressants or corticosteroids in the acute phase of HZ. PMID: 19874731 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The Journal of Family Practice)

Zoster Risk Sharply Reduced After Varicella Vaccination

Skin and Allergy News — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

VAIL, Colo. — The risk of herpes zoster in children under age 10 years who've been vaccinated against varicella was 4- to 12-fold less than in those with naturally acquired varicella in a large population-based study. (Source: Skin and Allergy News)

More Zoster Vaccine May Help Protect Elderly Patients

Medscape Medical News Headlines — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 15:40:05 +0100

Cell-mediated immunity plays a crucial role in resistance to herpes zoster in elderly patients, and giving more or higher doses of the zoster vaccine may boost the immune response, researchers report in the October 1st issue of the Journal of Infectious Diseases. Reuters Health Information (Source: Medscape Medical News Headlines)

Shingles vaccine now available for seniors

CBC | Health — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 19:28:18 +0100

A new vaccine against shingles is now available across Canada for people over the age of 60, says the vaccine's maker, Merck Frosst Canada. (Source: CBC | Health)

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Shingles vaccine Zostavax arrives in Canada

CTV Health — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 18:44:02 +0100

Canadian seniors can now help protect themselves against the intensely painful condition called shingles by getting a vaccine that becomes available today. (Source: CTV Health)

Evaluation of the cost-effectiveness in the United States of a vaccine to prevent herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia in older adults

Neurological Conditions Specialist Library — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 18:17:34 +0100

A structured abstract written by CRD reviewers. The abstract was published on 19 August 2009 from an original article published in 2007. (Source: Neurological Conditions Specialist Library)

Zoster Vaccine Could Have Off-Label Use

Skin and Allergy News — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Varicella‐Zoster Virus–Specific Immune Responses to Herpes Zoster in Elderly Participants in a Trial of a Clinically Effective Zoster Vaccine

The Journal of Infectious Diseases Latest Issue — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 21:27:56 +0100

Conclusions. Higher VZV CMI at HZ onset was associated with reduced HZ severity and less postherpetic neuralgia. Higher antibody titers were associated with increased HZ severity and occurrence of postherpetic neuralgia. HZ and zoster vaccine generated comparable VZV CMI. (Source: The Journal of Infectious Diseases Latest Issue)

Postherpetic neuralgia in the elderly.

Herpes — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 13:42:08 +0100

Authors: Johnson RW, McElhaney J Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is the most common complication of herpes zoster (HZ) or 'shingles' and affects a significant proportion of HZ patients with the disease, with the elderly being most frequently and seriously affected. Characterised by various types of pain (constant, intermittent and stimulus evoked) that persist between 3 months and many years after the resolution of the HZ rash, PHN can have a severe impact on the patient's quality of life and functional ability. PHN remains highly resistant to current treatments. In this review, we discuss the epidemiology, clinical features and management of PHN in the elderly and the potential of vaccination against varicella zoster virus as a means to prevent HZ, and thus decrease the incidence and sev...

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

DailyMed Drug Label Updates for the last seven days (since May 20, 2007 EST) — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 05:00:00 +0100

Updated Date: Aug 19, 2009 EST (Source: DailyMed Drug Label Updates for the last seven days (since May 20, 2007 EST))

Flu's Not the Only Ill That Might Merit a Preventive Shot

Wash Post Health — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 04:00:00 +0100

All the vaccine buzz is about the H1N1 virus right now, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is reminding Americans to make sure all of their vaccinations are up-to-date. The CDC encourages adults to guard against vaccine-preventable diseases such as shingles, human papillomavirus... (Source: Wash Post Health)

Varicella zoster virus vaccine live: Herpes zoster and meningitis in a child: case report

Reactions — Sun, 19 Jul 2009 10:50:09 +0100

(Source: Reactions)

Varicella zoster virus vaccines: effective, but concerns linger.

Canadian Journal of Ophthalmology — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 17:39:04 +0100

Authors: Liesegang TJ Both varicella and herpes zoster (HZ) can cause severe disease in certain age groups. The cell-mediated immune (CMI) response to the varicella zoster virus (VZV) is critical in preventing a recurrence of VZV. The varicella vaccine has markedly decreased the morbidity and mortality associated with varicella, but concerns linger about the cost and frequency of vaccine administration and the long-term effects on both adult varicella and HZ epidemiology in the individual and in the population. Therapy for HZ with an antiviral is only partially effective. A zoster vaccine is now available that boosts the CMI immune reaction to VZV in individuals and has proven safe and partially effective in preventing both HZ and post-herpetic neuralgia. Concerns about the zoster vacc...

Varicella zoster virus vaccine live: Herpes zoster and meningitis in a child: case report.

Reactions Weekly — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 10:44:40 +0100

Page: 29 (Source: Reactions Weekly)

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A phase i-ii study of live attenuated varicella-zoster virus vaccine to boost immunity in human immunodeficiency virus-infected children with previous varicella.

Herpes — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100

A PHASE I-II STUDY OF LIVE ATTENUATED VARICELLA-ZOSTER VIRUS VACCINE TO BOOST IMMUNITY IN HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS-INFECTED CHILDREN WITH PREVIOUS VARICELLA. Pediatr Infect Dis J. 2009 Jul;28(7):653-655 Authors: Gershon AA, Levin MJ, Weinberg A, Song LY, Larussa PS, Steinberg SP, Bartlett P, Herpes zoster, may be severe and recurrent in HIV-infected children. We determined the safety and immunogenicity of live attenuated varicella-zoster virus (VZV) vaccine in 46 HIV-infected children who had experienced varicella. There were no serious adverse events. Two years after vaccination 82% of subjects remained VZV-antibody positive and 60% had VZV-specific cell-mediated immunity. No child developed herpes zoster. PMID: 19561431 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: He...

CLINICAL CROSSROADS: A 70-Year-Old Woman With Shingles: Review of Herpes Zoster

JAMA — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Herpes zoster is a common late complication of varicella-zoster virus exposure and can be further complicated by postherpetic neuralgia. Ms A is a 70-year-old woman with shingles and Ramsay-Hunt syndrome who presented to the emergency department with a few days of earache followed by pain in the back of her head. Using her case as a springboard, the diagnosis, natural history, and treatment of herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia in immunocompetent older adults are reviewed, in addition to the effectiveness of the herpes zoster vaccine. (Source: JAMA)

Immune therapy for age-related diseases.

Trends in Immunology — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Weksler ME, Pawelec G, Franceschi C Human aging is reaching epidemic proportions as life expectancy increases and birth rate decreases. These demographic trends have led to a sharp increase in the diseases of aging, and an understanding of immune senescence promises to limit the development and progression of these diseases. In this review, we discuss three of the most important diseases of aging: shingles, Alzheimer's disease and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. All of these diseases have significant immunological components in either their etiology and/or progression, suggesting that appropriate immune intervention could be used in their prevention or treatment. Indeed, recent clinical studies have already demonstrated that vaccination can reduce the incidence of shin...

Does varicella-zoster virus infection of the peripheral ganglia cause Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

Medical Hypotheses — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100

This article posits that infection of the peripheral ganglia causes at least some cases of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), with a neurotropic herpesvirus, particularly varicella-zoster virus (VZV), as the most likely cause of the infection. Virtually all CFS symptoms could be produced by an infection of the peripheral ganglia, with infection of the autonomic ganglia causing fatigue, postural hypotension, and sleep disturbances, and infection of the sensory ganglia causing sensory symptoms such as chronic pain. Furthermore, infections of the peripheral ganglia are known to cause long-term nerve dysfunction, which would help explain the chronic course of CFS. Herpesviruses have long been suspected as the cause of CFS; this theory has recently been supported by studies showing that administer...

Shingles vaccine (JANUARY 2009)

Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 04:00:00 +0100

(Source: Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine)

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Zoster Vaccine, Severe Skin Diseases Don't Mix

Skin and Allergy News — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 04:00:00 +0100

SAN FRANCISCO — Immunization with the live attenuated herpes zoster vaccine (Zostavax) probably isn't worth the potential risks in patients with psoriasis or other chronic inflammatory skin diseases, Dr. Alice Gottlieb said. (Source: Skin and Allergy News)

Shingles and the vaccine to prevent it.

The American Journal of Nursing — Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Wielawski IM PMID: 19478611 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: The American Journal of Nursing)

Coalition of advocates to vaccinate of Western European citizens aged 60 years and older.

Aging Clinical and Experimental Research — Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Michel JP, Chidiac C, Grubeck-Loebenstein B, Johnson RW, Lambert PH, Maggi S, Moulias R, Nicholson K, Werner H The high burden of infectious diseases in adults aged 60 years and older is disproportionate, considering that many of these diseases are vaccine-preventable. Based on careful analysis of the reasons for vaccination barriers/failures in the European population, the two European geriatric and gerontological societies (the European Union Geriatric Medicine Society [EUGMS] and the International Association of Gerontology and Geriatrics - European Region [IAGG-ER]) propose careful adaptation of current vaccine guidelines to promote preventive aspects, concerning both life threatening-diseases (influenza, pneumococcal pneumonia and tetanus/diphtheria) and diseases which ad...

Educational vaccine tools: the French initiative.

Aging Clinical and Experimental Research — Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Belmin J, Bourée P, Camus D, Guiso N, Jeandel C, Trivalle C, Veyssier P Prevention is an important but neglected issue in geriatric medicine. Vaccination plays a major role in prevention of infectious diseases, but its implementation in clinical practice is far from perfect. To improve practice, a group of French experts composed of geriatricians and infectious disease specialists prepared a set of educational material about vaccination for older subjects. The tool has been designed to be used by medical teachers to help them teach this topic to other physicians, nursing staff and students. The group first defined teaching objectives and reviewed the scientific literature on the efficacy and use of various vaccines in the elderly. Results were recorded in 217 slides. Thes...

Herpes Zoster and Postherpetic Neuralgia: a review of the effects of vaccination.

Aging Clinical and Experimental Research — Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Johnson RW Herpes zoster (HZ) results from reactivation of varicella zoster virus which has been persistent but clinically latent in dorsal root and cranial nerve ganglia since primary infection, usually as a child, with varicella (chicken pox). HZ affects 20-30% of individuals during their lifetime and up to 50% of those >/=80 years old. Although serious life- or sightthreatening complications occur rarely, postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is the most common complication. Both HZ and PHN are most common in the elderly. Declining cell-mediated immunity resulting from immune senescence appears to be the cause. Incidence of HZ is also high in individuals who are immunocompromised as a result of disease or its treatment. HZ also occurs in younger and fit individuals but is usually...

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Overview of vaccination policies for the elderly in Western European countries.

Aging Clinical and Experimental Research — Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Samson SI, Mégard Y Age-related changes in the immune system are associated with increased susceptibility to infections, greater disease severity and poorer outcomes in the elderly compared with young adults. Both influenza and pneumonia are important causes of morbidity and mortality in the elderly, and herpes zoster also represents an important disease burden in this population. Vaccinations against influenza and Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) have been shown to reduce the incidence of influenza and invasive pneumococcal disease, respectively, in the elderly. In addition, as is the case with diphtheria/tetanus and herpes zoster vaccines, they can help to reduce the associated burden of disease in vaccinated individuals. Despite the evidence of these benefits, t...

Zostavax and Psoriasis Do Not Mix

Family Practice News — Fri, 01 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100

Zostavax

What's New at CBER — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 16:49:00 +0100

(Source: What's New at CBER)

Zostavax

What's New at CBER — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 16:49:00 +0100

December 18, 2009 Approval Letter, Summary Basis for Regulatory Action, updated Package Insert and Patient Information to include the statement that Zostavax and Pneumovax 23 should not be given concurrently. (Source: What's New at CBER)

Adult Vaccine-Preventable Diseases Crosstalk

Medscape Allergy Headlines — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 16:00:00 +0100

Learn about the latest data on the use and effectiveness of vaccinations for 5 common vaccine-preventable diseases in adults: influenza, pneumococcal disease, pertussis, herpes zoster, and human papillomavirus infection. (Source: Medscape Allergy Headlines)

MedWorm Message: Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm Swine Flu RSS news feed - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.

Varicella zoster vaccines

Dermatologic Therapy — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 04:00:00 +0100

In the past, the varicella zoster virus affected virtually the entire population and had substantial morbidity and mortality associated with both primary varicella and herpes zoster reactivation. Since the varicella vaccine was first approved in 1995, there has been a significant decline in incidence, morbidity, and mortality caused by primary varicella. Breakthrough disease with the one-dose vaccine schedule led to the recommendation in 2006 that children receive a two-dose vaccine series. Older adults have also benefited from the development of the zoster vaccine. In 2006, the Food and Drug Administration approved the zoster vaccine, a higher concentration of the same live attenuated virus used in the primary varicella vaccine, for persons 60 years of age or older. It has the potential t...

Vaccines under study: non-HIV vaccines

Dermatologic Therapy — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 04:00:00 +0100

This article focuses on vaccines that have yet to be approved for licensure. (Source: Dermatologic Therapy)

[NEWS] Shingles vaccination is likely to be cost effective at age 65 or 70

BMJ — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: BMJ)

A Comparison of the Immunogenicity and Safety of ZOSTAVAX(R) in Adults 50 to 59 Years Old and Adults >=60 Years Old.

Clinical and Vaccine Immunology — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: After a dose of ZOSTAVAX(R), GMFR of VZV Ab response in subjects 50 to 59 years old was noninferior to that in subjects >/=60 years old. VZV Ab response was acceptable in both age groups. ZOSTAVAX(R) was generally well tolerated in both age groups. PMID: 19261769 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Clinical and Vaccine Immunology)

Shingles vaccine ((JANUARY 2009)

Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine)

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Herpes zoster (shingles) and postherpetic neuralgia.

Mayo Clinic Proceedings — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Sampathkumar P, Drage LA, Martin DP Herpes zoster (HZ), commonly called shingles, is a distinctive syndrome caused by reactivation of varicella zoster virus (VZV). This reactivation occurs when immunity to VZV declines because of aging or immunosuppression. Herpes zoster can occur at any age but most commonly affects the elderly population. Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), defined as pain persisting more than 3 months after the rash has healed, is a debilitating and difficult to manage consequence of HZ. The diagnosis of HZ is usually made clinically on the basis of the characteristic appearance of the rash. Early recognition and treatment can reduce acute symptoms and may also reduce PHN. A live, attenuated vaccine aimed at boosting immunity to VZV and reducing the risk of HZ is...

Childhood Chicken Pox Can Lead To Shingles Later In Life

ScienceDaily Headlines — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 08:43:02 +0100

You may recall as a child catching the itchy red rash, chicken pox. The unsightly infection was caused by the varicella zoster virus and was responsible for nearly 4 million cases each year, until a vaccine introduced in 1995 reduced that number by 83 percent. Varicella zoster can lie dormant in the body for decades, and if activated can lead to herpes zoster, more commonly referred to as shingles, according to a new study. (Source: ScienceDaily Headlines)

Health News of the Day

Clinical Cases and Images — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 19:50:00 +0100

is a daily summary made from the selected links I post on Twitter. It is in a bullet points format with links to the original sources which include 350 RSS feeds that produce about 2,500 items per day.Treatment with monoclonal anti–TNF- antibodies for RA may be associated with increased risk of herpes zoster http://is.gd/jTdyTNF-alpha blockers doubled the risk of herpes zoster among rheumatoid arthritis sufferers in a 5,040-patient study http://is.gd/jThWMonoclonal anti–TNF- antibodies Humira, Kineret, and Remicade each increased shingles risk by 80%. Enbrel did not. http://is.gd/jThWJAMA: Half of adult cancer survivors are younger than 65 years but cancer survivorship is associated with unemployment http://is.gd/jTfdColorectal cancer is the fourth most common cancer in men and the th...

Shingles vaccine comes step nearer

Pulse — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 12:33:00 +0100

Introduction of a vaccination programme against shingles in older people would be cost-effective, concludes a study to be submitted to a Government advisory committee. (Source: Pulse)

Shingles vaccine comes a step nearer

Pulse Today Clinical Updates — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 12:33:00 +0100

A study prepared for a Government advisory committee finds the introduction of a vaccination programme against shingles in older people is likely to be cost-effective. (Source: Pulse Today Clinical Updates)

MedWorm Message: Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm Swine Flu RSS news feed - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.

Estimating the cost-effectiveness of vaccination against herpes zoster in England and Wales.

Vaccine — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100

This study uses a Markov cohort model to estimate whether routine vaccination of the elderly (60+) would be cost-effective, when compared with other uses of health care resources. Vaccine efficacy parameters are estimated by fitting a model to clinical trial data. Estimates of QALY losses due to acute HZ and post-herpetic neuralgia were derived by fitting models to data on the duration of pain by severity and the QoL detriment associated with different severity categories, as reported in a number of different studies. Other parameters (such as cost and incidence estimates) were based on the literature, or UK data sources. The results suggest that vaccination of 65 year olds is likely to be cost-effective (base-case ICER= pound20,400 per QALY gained). If the vaccine does offer additional pr...

Q: Who should receive the shingles vaccine?

Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100

The answer: Nearly everyone who is age 60 and older, immunocompetent, and without contraindications to it. (Source: Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine)

New Viral Prophylactic Vaccines: Dermatology Perspective and Update

Medscape Infectious Diseases Headlines — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 21:16:41 +0100

The new vaccines for human papillomavirus (HPV) and herpes zoster (HZ) vaccines should impact dermatological diseases and the healthcare and economic burdens associated with these two viruses. AccessMedicine from McGraw-Hill (Source: Medscape Infectious Diseases Headlines)

Herpes zoster vaccination among adults aged 60 years or older in the United States, 2007: Uptake of the first new vaccine to target seniors.

Vaccine — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: Soon after its availability in the United States, coverage among adults recommended to receive the HZ vaccine was low. Our data provide evidence that the lack of patient awareness and of physician recommendations were barriers to vaccine uptake. PMID: 19071175 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Vaccine)

Recovery of varicella-zoster virus-specific T cell immunity after T cell-depleted allogeneic transplantation requires symptomatic virus reactivation.

Biology of Blood and Marrow Transplantation — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Distler E, Schnürer E, Wagner E, von Auer C, Plachter B, Wehler D, Huber C, Kolbe K, Meyer RG, Herr W Reactivated varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infection causes herpes zoster and commonly occurs after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). Because VZV-specific T cell immunity is essential to prevent virus reactivation, we developed an interferon-gamma enzyme-linked immunosorbent spot (ELISPOT) assay for the sensitive detection of VZV-reactive T cells at the single-cell level ex vivo. We used this assay to monitor the frequency of VZV-reactive T cells in 17 seropositive patients during the first year after T cell-depleted allo-HSCT. The patients did not receive anti-herpesvirus prophylaxis after stem cell engraftment. Independent of the magnitude of...

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Genome-wide reduction in transcriptomal profiles of varicella-zoster virus vaccine strains compared with Parental Oka strain using long oligonucleotide microarrays

Virus Genes — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 09:46:26 +0100

Abstract Varicella-Zoster virus (VZV) causes varicella as a primary infection following which it becomes latent in human ganglia and then reactivates to cause herpes zoster. VZV vaccines are used to prevent primary infection with varicella, and also to reduce the incidence of viral reactivation causing herpes zoster and post-herpetic neuralgia. To gain further insights into the molecular basis of their attenuated virulence, we used long oligonucleotide microarrays to determine the lytic transcriptomal profiles of two vaccine VZV strains (Merck and GSK) compared with the Oka parental (P-Oka) strain. There was a global downregulation of transcription of both vaccines relative to P-Oka, although this downregulation was more extensive in the GSK strain. Open Reading Frames (OR...

Should a Patient Exposed to Shingles Receive the Zoster Vaccine?

Medscape PublicHealth Headlines — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 17:12:34 +0100

A man whose wife has shingles requests an immunization to protect him from the disease. Medscape Pharmacists (Source: Medscape PublicHealth Headlines)

Herpes Zoster and Meningitis Resulting From Reactivation of Varicella Vaccine Virus in an Immunocompetent Child.

Annals of Emergency Medicine — Sat, 22 Nov 2008 05:00:00 +0100

We present one of the first cases of aseptic meningitis after herpes zoster caused by reactivation of vaccine-type varicella-zoster virus in an immunocompetent child. We also highlight the increasing role of both wild-type and vaccine strains of varicella-zoster virus as a cause of viral meningoencephalitis and the use of appropriate laboratory tools to rapidly and accurately identify the virus in order to provide prompt patient care and management. PMID: 19028409 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Annals of Emergency Medicine)

[Herpes zoster in old adults.]

Presse Medicale — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Lang PO, Belmin J, Michel JP The varicella-zoster virus is an exclusively human herpesvirus, responsible for chickenpox. Its reactivation, after several decades, causes herpes zoster (shingles). Herpes zoster produces a rash, classically metameric, that causes acute pain and complications to elderly patients. The last, most painful, and disabling of these is postherpetic neuralgia. This neuralgia is defined as a painful syndrome lasting for more than 30 days after eruption of the rash. Today's systemic antiviral drugs can reduce the severity of the eruption, limit the pain, and diminish the incidence of postherpetic neuralgia. A recent advance in primary prevention is approval of a vaccine (Zostavax((R))) to prevent herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia in subjects 60 years...

Herpes zoster burden of illness and health care resource utilisation in the Australian population aged 50 years and older.

Vaccine — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Stein AN, Britt H, Harrison C, Conway EL, Cunningham A, Macintyre CR Incidence of zoster and post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) and associated health care resource utilisation were investigated in the Australian population aged >/=50 years, using general practice data from 2000 to 2006, and pharmaceutical prescribing, hospital morbidity and emergency department data from 1998 to 2005. Zoster and PHN incidence rates were estimated as approximately 10/1000 and 1.45/1000 persons, respectively, with antivirals prescribed for 73.5% of zoster cases. Estimated hospitalisation and emergency department visit rates were 0.67/1000 and 0.38/1000 persons, respectively. Management of zoster (including PHN) involved approximately 2.4 general practitioner consultations. Total costs to the healt...

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Varicella zoster virus vaccine live: Herpes zoster and meningitis in a child: case report

Reactions — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 06:37:52 +0100

(Source: Reactions)

Varicella zoster virus vaccine live: Herpes zoster and meningitis in a child: case report.

Reactions Weekly — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 09:02:10 +0100

Page: 34 (Source: Reactions Weekly)

Biological Product Shortages - Zostavax

What's New at CBER — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 18:20:00 +0100

Beginning in July of 2008 Merck reported shipping delays for Zostavax® (Zoster Vaccine Live). As of this posting the product availability is unchanged with backorders of 3 to 5 weeks. (Source: What's New at CBER)

Determinants of non-compliance with herpes zoster vaccination in the community-dwelling elderly.

Vaccine — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Opstelten W, van Essen GA, Hak E As part of a series of studies on vaccine acceptance, we assessed determinants of compliance of the community-dwelling elderly with herpes zoster (HZ) vaccination in an existing influenza vaccination program. General practitioners (GPs) sent out a questionnaire to 1778 patients aged >/=65 years, and offered them free HZ vaccination simultaneously with the yearly influenza vaccination. In all, 690 patients (39%) were vaccinated against HZ; 1349 patients (76%) accepted influenza vaccination. Determinants of non-compliance with HZ vaccination were perceived lack of recommendation by the GP, unwillingness to comply with the doctor's advice, perception of low risk of contracting HZ, perception of short pain duration of HZ, and the opinion that va...

Herpes-zoster vaccine proves effective for appropriate adults 60-80 years

Geriatrics Magazine — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 07:13:31 +0100

The burden of illness from shingles and post-herpetic neuralgia is high among the elderly. The herpes-zoster vaccine is a safe and well-tolerated preventive in appropriate patients between ages 60 and 80, decreasing occurrences of herpes zoster by approximately 50% and the development of PHN by two thirds. (Source: Geriatrics Magazine)

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Geriatrics Digital Edition October 2008

Geriatrics Magazine — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Information for the practitioner about the herpes zoster virus vaccine Using the ABCD scoring system and other prognostic approaches to identify patients at high risk for stroke following TIA Emerging insights into the pathophysiology of hypertension particularly in the elderly A guide to antihypertensive drug therapy in elderly persons Plus regular columns and departments (Source: Geriatrics Magazine)

Supply of shingles vaccine falls short as cases increase

bizjournals.com Health Care:Physician Practices headlines — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Doctors in Arizona and nationwide are seeing an increase in shingles cases and a shortage of the vaccine. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Physician Practices headlines)

Varicella zoster virus vaccine live: Herpes zoster in an infant: case report

Reactions — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 09:44:54 +0100

(Source: Reactions)

Varicella zoster virus vaccine live: Herpes zoster in an infant: case report.

Reactions Weekly — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 09:59:08 +0100

Page: 34 (Source: Reactions Weekly)

Vaccine could eliminate varicella virus

Pulse — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 12:53:00 +0100

A two-dose vaccination programme could eliminate the varicella virus in the UK, but may also mean the elderly need to be vaccinated to prevent them contracting shingles, according to new research. (Source: Pulse)

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Merck's Shingles Vaccine on Nationwide Backorder

Medscape Allergy Headlines — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 15:27:53 +0100

A shortfall in the supply of Merck's Zostavax vaccine for shingles prevention has created a backlog of orders that likely won't be resolved for months, the company has announced. Reuters Health Information (Source: Medscape Allergy Headlines)

Zostavax approved in Canada for prevention of shingles

Inpharma — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 06:49:13 +0100

(Source: Inpharma)

Varicella Prevention in the United States: A Review of Successes and Challenges

PEDIATRICS — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS. A decade of varicella prevention in the United States has resulted in a dramatic decline in disease; however, even with high vaccination coverage, the effectiveness of 1 dose of vaccine did not generate sufficient population immunity to prevent community transmission. A 2-dose varicella vaccine schedule, therefore, was recommended for children in 2006. Data are inconclusive regarding an effect of the varicella vaccination program on herpes zoster epidemiology. (Source: PEDIATRICS)

Estimating the number needed to vaccinate to prevent herpes zoster-related disease, health care resource use and mortality.

Canadian Journal of Public Health — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100

DISCUSSION: The predicted NNV to prevent HZ and PHN are low even though vaccine efficacy is between 50-70%, which reflects the high incidence of these diseases among older adults. Results clearly show that the main benefit of HZ vaccination is prevention of morbidity caused by pain (as measured by QALYs lost) rather than mortality. PMID: 19009921 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Canadian Journal of Public Health)

Zostavax approved in Canada for prevention of shingles,.

Inpharma Weekly — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 09:27:57 +0100

Page: 23 (Source: Inpharma Weekly)

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Vaccine-strain varicella zoster virus causing recurrent herpes zoster in an immunocompetent 2-year-old.

The Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 09:34:01 +0100

Page: 847DOI: 10.1097/INF.0b013e318170af75Authors: Ota, Kaede MD *; Kim, Vy MD *; Lavi, Sasson MD *; Ford-Jones, Elizabeth L. MD *; Tipples, Graham PhD +; Scolnik, Dennis MB, ChB *; Tellier, Raymond MD, MSc * (Source: The Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal)

Health Canada OKs shingles vaccine for older patients

CTV Health — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 22:47:07 +0100

Health Canada has approved a vaccine that helps prevent painful shingles outbreaks in older people who had chickenpox earlier in life. (Source: CTV Health)

Canada OKs vaccine to prevent painful shingles in seniors

CBC | Health — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 21:21:17 +0100

Health Canada has approved a vaccine to help prevent painful singles in people 60 or older who had chickenpox earlier in life. (Source: CBC | Health)

When Your Patients and In-laws Ask Whether They Should Receive the Shingles Vaccine

Medscape Today Headlines — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 21:37:22 +0100

In his most recent videoblog, Paul Auwaerter, MD, discusses the shingles vaccine and its implications for inquiring patients, in-laws, and healthcare providers. Medscape Infectious Diseases (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Preventing Herpes Zoster and Postherpetic Neuralgia: Are Your Patients Adequately Protected?

Medscape PublicHealth Headlines — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 16:00:00 +0100

Review the epidemiology of herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia, and evaluate current treatment options, including the herpes zoster vaccination. (Source: Medscape PublicHealth Headlines)

MedWorm Message: Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm Swine Flu RSS news feed - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.

Strategies for Overcoming Low Immunization Rates Among Adults (Slides with Audio)

Medscape PublicHealth Headlines — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 15:52:22 +0100

Review the epidemiology of herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia, and evaluate current treatment options, including the herpes zoster vaccination. (Source: Medscape PublicHealth Headlines)

Preventing Herpes Zoster and PHN by Vaccination (Slides with Audio)

Medscape PublicHealth Headlines — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 15:52:22 +0100

Review the epidemiology of herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia, and evaluate current treatment options, including the herpes zoster vaccination. (Source: Medscape PublicHealth Headlines)

Herpes Zoster and PHN: Epidemiology, Health Burden, and Treatment Options (Slides with Audio)

Medscape PublicHealth Headlines — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 15:52:22 +0100

Review the epidemiology of herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia, and evaluate current treatment options, including the herpes zoster vaccination. (Source: Medscape PublicHealth Headlines)

Sound Medicine: 07-20-08

Sound Medicine — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Topics for this week include: Book: Take a Load off Your Heart; Did You Know?: Baby Smiles and Parental Bonding; The DASH Diet Improves Heart Health in Women; Checkup: Walking Intervention; Shingles Vaccine; Stuttering (Source: Sound Medicine)

Varicella zoster virus vaccine live: Herpes zoster in an infant: case report.

Reactions Weekly — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 08:09:42 +0100

Page: 30 (Source: Reactions Weekly)

MedWorm Message: Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm Swine Flu RSS news feed - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.

Varicella zoster virus vaccine live: Herpes zoster in an infant: case report

Reactions — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 08:54:24 +0100

(Source: Reactions)

Merck Signals Shipping Delays for Zostavax

WSJ.com: Health — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 12:48:00 +0100

Merck is telling customers to expect shipping delays in the coming months for its Zostavax shingles vaccine due to ongoing supply constraints for one of the ingredients. (Source: WSJ.com: Health)

Take Care Health Systems offers shingles vaccine nationwide

Drug Topics - Hot off the Press — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 04:00:00 +0100

The vaccine will be available in Walgreens stores nationwide. (Source: Drug Topics - Hot off the Press)

Take Care Health Systems Offers Shingles Vaccine Nationwide

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 13:00:00 +0100

Take Care Health Systems, one of the largest managers of convenient care clinics and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Walgreens (NYSE, NASDAQ: WAG), is now administering the shingles vaccine at all 177 Take Care Health Clinics located at Walgreens drugstores in 19 markets throughout 14 states. By administering the shingles vaccine in a convenient setting, Take Care Health Providers further extend access to high-quality, affordable and convenient health care to patients nationwide. (Source: Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today)

CDC Recommends Those Over 60 Years Get Shingles Vaccine

LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Thimerosal & Vaccines Legal News — Sat, 21 Jun 2008 20:00:23 +0100

ATLANTA - The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says more than 43 million Americans over age 60 are at risk for a potentially painful outbreak of shingles and recommends that those in that age group obtain a vaccination against the viral outbreak. Full story on lexis.com (Source: LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Thimerosal & Vaccines Legal News)

MedWorm Message: Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm Swine Flu RSS news feed - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.

Pain Prevention For Older Adults -- The Shingles Vaccine

Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 11:00:00 +0100

A vaccine to prevent shingles -- a painful and common skin rash -- has been available for more than two years, but few people reportedly are vaccinated.The June issue of Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource covers why this vaccine, Zostavax, is recommended for adults over age 60.Nearly everyone in this age group has had chickenpox. And the virus that causes chickenpox, varicella-zoster virus, remains dormant in the body's nerves. (Source: Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today)

Pain Prevention for Older Adults — the Shingles Vaccine

Mayo Clinic Research News — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 20:00:36 +0100

A vaccine to prevent shingles - a painful and common skin rash - has been available for more than two years, but few people reportedly are vaccinated. (Source: Mayo Clinic Research News)

Pain Prevention for Older Adults — the Shingles Vaccine

News from Mayo Clinic — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 20:00:36 +0100

A vaccine to prevent shingles - a painful and common skin rash - has been available for more than two years, but few people reportedly are vaccinated. (Source: News from Mayo Clinic)

Pain Prevention for Older Adults — the Shingles Vaccine

Mayo Clinic Rochester News — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 20:00:36 +0100

A vaccine to prevent shingles - a painful and common skin rash - has been available for more than two years, but few people reportedly are vaccinated. (Source: Mayo Clinic Rochester News)

CDC recommends herpes zoster vaccine for adults over age 60

Drug Topics - Clinical News — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 04:00:00 +0100

CDC updates vaccine recommendation for herpes zoster. (Source: Drug Topics - Clinical News)

MedWorm Message: Get the very latest Swine Flu news via the MedWorm Swine Flu RSS news feed - updated hourly from thousands of authoritative health and news sources.

Prevention of Herpes Zoster: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP).

MMWR Recomm Rep — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 04:00:00 +0100

This report summarizes the epidemiology of zoster and its sequelae, describes the zoster vaccine, and provides recommendations for its use among adults aged >/=60 years in the United States. Zoster is a localized, generally painful cutaneous eruption that occurs most frequently among older adults and immunocompromised persons. It is caused by reactivation of latent varicella zoster virus (VZV) decades after initial VZV infection is established. Approximately one in three persons will develop zoster during their lifetime, resulting in an estimated 1 million episodes in the United States annually. A common complication of zoster is postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a chronic, often debilitating pain condition that can last months or even years. The risk for PHN in patients with zoster is 10%-...

Varicella zoster virus vaccine live: Cutaneous herpes zoster following vaccination in an elderly patient receiving paclitaxel and trastuzumab: case report

Reactions — Mon, 26 May 2008 14:39:50 +0100

(Source: Reactions)

Varicella zoster virus vaccine live: Cutaneous herpes zoster following vaccination in an elderly patient receiving paclitaxel and trastuzumab: case report.

Reactions Weekly — Sat, 24 May 2008 14:40:59 +0100

Page: 38 (Source: Reactions Weekly)

Prevention of shingles: safety and efficacy of live zoster vaccine

Therapeutics and Clinical Risk Management — Wed, 21 May 2008 15:09:38 +0100

Dianna Quan1, Randall J Cohrs1, Ravi Mahalingam1, Donald H Gilden1,2Departments of 1Neurology and 2Microbiology, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver, Colorado, USAAbstract: Primary infection with varicella zoster virus (VZV) causes chickenpox (varicella) after which virus becomes latent in cranial nerve, dorsal root and autonomic ganglia along the entire neuraxis. Virus may later reactivate, causing shingles (zoster), characterized by pain and rash restricted to 1–3 dermatomes. More than 40% of zoster patients over age 60 develop postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), pain that persists for months to years. The socioeconomic impact of primary varicella infection has been lessened by introduction of VZV vaccine for children. However, the effect of childhood vaccination on the...

Shingles vaccine: Should I get it?

MayoClinic.com Full Feed — Tue, 20 May 2008 06:00:00 +0100

The shingles vaccine is recommended for all adults older than age 60.Sponsored by:Chemotherapy.com - http://www.chemotherapy.com (Source: MayoClinic.com Full Feed)

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Shingles vaccine: Should I get it?

MayoClinic.com - Ask a Specialist — Tue, 20 May 2008 06:00:00 +0100

The shingles vaccine is recommended for all adults older than age 60.Sponsored by:Chemotherapy.com - http://www.chemotherapy.com (Source: MayoClinic.com - Ask a Specialist)

CDC's Advisory Committee Recommends "Shingles" Vaccination

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention — Mon, 19 May 2008 13:57:45 +0100

Atlanta The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), a federal panel of immunization experts, has recommended people age 60 and older receive a new vaccine to prevent herpes zoster, or shingles, a condition that often leads to debilitating chronic pain... (Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

CDC Recommends ZOSTAVAX®, Merck's Shingles Vaccine, For All Appropriate Adults Aged 60 And Older

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Mon, 19 May 2008 07:00:00 +0100

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has adopted the unanimous recommendation of its Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) for the use of ZOSTAVAX® (Zoster Vaccine Live) for the prevention of shingles in adults aged 60 and older. ZOSTAVAX is the only vaccine to prevent shingles, a frequently painful disease marked by a blistering rash that is caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus. (Source: Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today)

STUDY: Family History as a Risk Factor for Herpes Zoster: A Case-Control Study

Archives of Dermatology — Mon, 19 May 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions The results suggest an association between herpes zoster and family history of zoster. Future studies will be needed to investigate this association. (Source: Archives of Dermatology)

CDC Recommends Shingles Vaccine

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention — Sun, 18 May 2008 23:00:00 +0100

People age 60 and older should be vaccinated against shingles, or herpes zoster, a condition often marked by debilitating chronic pain... (Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

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Shingles vaccine recommended for elderly

United Press International - Health Business — Fri, 16 May 2008 18:16:25 +0100

ATLANTA, May 16 (UPI) -- People age 60 and older should be vaccinated against shingles, or herpes zoster, a painful condition, U.S. health officials said. (Source: United Press International - Health Business)

CDC Suggests Shingles Shots, Despite Cost

WDSU.com - Health — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:55:39 +0100

Even though a vaccine against shingles only works about half the time, the government thinks it's worth the cost. (Source: WDSU.com - Health)

CDC Recommends Shingles Vaccine

Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today — Fri, 16 May 2008 11:00:00 +0100

People age 60 and older should be vaccinated against shingles, or herpes zoster, a condition often marked by debilitating chronic pain, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended. CDC recommends a single dose of the zoster vaccine, Zostavax, for adults 60 years of age and older even if they have had a prior episode of shingles. The new full recommendation replaces a provisional recommendation that the CDC made in 2006, after the vaccine was licensed by the U. (Source: Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today)

Age 60 or Older? Get Shingles Vaccine

MedicineNet Skin General — Fri, 16 May 2008 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Age 60 or Older? Get Shingles VaccineCategory: Health NewsCreated: 5/16/2008Last Editorial Review: 5/16/2008 (Source: MedicineNet Skin General)

Age 60 or Older? Get Shingles Vaccine

MedicineNet Chronic Pain General — Fri, 16 May 2008 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Age 60 or Older? Get Shingles VaccineCategory: Health NewsCreated: 5/16/2008Last Editorial Review: 5/16/2008 (Source: MedicineNet Chronic Pain General)

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Age 60 or Older? Get Shingles Vaccine

MedicineNet Migraine General — Fri, 16 May 2008 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Age 60 or Older? Get Shingles VaccineCategory: Health NewsCreated: 5/16/2008Last Editorial Review: 5/16/2008 (Source: MedicineNet Migraine General)

Older Americans Urged to Get Shingles Shots

NYT > Health — Fri, 16 May 2008 06:06:23 +0100

The one-time vaccination can prevent painful rashes, scarring and nerve damage, said federal officials. (Source: NYT > Health)

CDC Recommends Shingles Vaccine for Adults 60 and Older

Physician's First Watch current issue — Fri, 16 May 2008 04:00:00 +0100

(Source: Physician's First Watch current issue)

Shingles Vaccine Recommended for All Older Adults

Medscape PublicHealth Headlines — Fri, 16 May 2008 03:52:00 +0100

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is now recommending that all adults age 60 and older receive a dose of the zoster vaccine (Zostavax), even if they have had shingles previously. Reuters Health Information (Source: Medscape PublicHealth Headlines)