Tag

Varicella Zoster Virus

All articles tagged with #varicella zoster virus

health7 days ago•51 min saved

Shingles Incidence Drops Sharply in Vaccinated Generations, Study Finds

Shingles rates have declined significantly among younger Americans who received the chickenpox vaccine as children. A large-scale analysis of medical records confirms that early vaccination against the varicella-zoster virus provides long-term protection against shingles in adulthood. While rates remain higher for older cohorts who contracted chickenpox naturally, the data highlights the enduring benefits of childhood immunization.

via Yahoo|

#chickenpox-vaccine #epidemiology #health

health10 days ago•3 min saved

Viola Davis Discloses 2012 Shingles Diagnosis, Urges Public to Prioritize Pain Management

Actress Viola Davis disclosed that she suffered from shingles in 2012, describing the nerve pain as a 9 out of 10. The condition, caused by the varicella-zoster virus, affected her despite her active lifestyle. Davis is now partnering with GSK to promote the Shingrix vaccine and encourage adults over 50 to seek medical attention for pain.

via New York Post|

#gsk #health #pain-management

health11 days ago•422 min saved

Viola Davis Discloses Past Shingles Diagnosis, Urges Older Adults to Listen to Their Bodies

Viola Davis has publicly disclosed that she previously suffered from shingles, a painful viral infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus. The 61-year-old actress described the diagnosis as a 'surprise of my life' and detailed how she initially misattributed her severe symptoms to the flu, a spider bite, or gym-related irritation. Davis, who had no prior knowledge of the condition, experienced debilitating pain and rashes that forced her to reassess her relationship with her body. She is now partnering with biopharma company GSK for a public awareness campaign aimed at encouraging adults over 50 to consult healthcare providers about their risk and prevention options. The disclosure highlights the importance of recognizing physical distress signals, particularly for those with weakened immune systems or a history of chickenpox.

via TODAY.com|

#gsk #health #public-health

health17 days ago•14 min saved

Epic Data Shows 1995 Chickenpox Vaccine Era Halved Shingles Rates in Young Adults

A massive analysis of 85 million U.S. medical records confirms that the 1995 introduction of the childhood chickenpox vaccine has significantly reduced shingles cases in adults under 35. While shingles rates are rising for older cohorts who contracted the virus naturally, younger generations vaccinated as children show a steep decline, with rates dropping by 62% between the mid-1990s and 2000s birth cohorts. This data supports the long-term protective benefits of early vaccination against the varicella-zoster virus.

via Gizmodo|

#chickenpox-vaccine #epic-research #health

health2 years ago•2 min saved

Study Reveals Over 50% of Chickenpox Diagnoses are Inaccurate

A study in Minnesota found that over half of people diagnosed with chickenpox based on symptoms were actually negative for the virus, with some being infected with other viruses such as enterovirus or herpes simplex virus 1. The decline in chickenpox cases due to vaccination has made clinical diagnoses unreliable, leading to a push for expanded laboratory testing to confirm suspected cases. The study underscores the importance of accurate diagnoses, as those suspected of having chickenpox are advised to stay home longer than those with other viral infections.

via Ars Technica|

#chickenpox #diagnosis #health

health2 years ago•10 min saved

"Global Varicella Vaccination Disparities: Understanding the Chickenpox Dilemma"

The decision not to vaccinate children against chickenpox in some countries has been influenced by concerns about potential consequences, including the risk of shingles in older adults. However, recent evidence has shown that the feared increase in shingles cases has not materialized in countries where the vaccine has been implemented. As a result, the UK has recently recommended adding the chickenpox vaccine to its national childhood immunization program, with other countries also considering similar measures. The availability of the vaccine is seen as a potential game-changer in preventing severe complications and deaths associated with chickenpox.

via BBC.com|

#chickenpox #childhood-immunization #health

health2 years ago•7 min saved

"Understanding Shingrix: A Guide to Shingles Prevention"

Shingles, caused by the varicella-zoster virus, can be prevented with the highly effective Shingrix vaccine, recommended for adults over 50 and those with weakened immune systems. The vaccine is free for eligible individuals under Medicare Part D or private insurance. Shingles can cause a painful rash, nerve pain, and serious complications, including vision and balance impairments, facial paralysis, and heart issues. If you suspect shingles, seek medical advice promptly for antiviral treatment and symptom management.

via The Washington Post|

#health #prevention #shingles

health3 years ago•6 min saved

Shingles on the Rise: Exploring the Surge in Younger Adults

Cases of shingles, an infection caused by the chickenpox virus, are increasing among adults under 50, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The cause of this increase remains unknown, but theories include reduced exposure to the virus due to the varicella vaccine and increased stress levels. Shingles can cause a painful rash, along with other symptoms, and can lead to complications such as postherpetic neuralgia and eye damage. Treatment with antiviral medications can help, but prevention is key. Vaccines, such as the Shingrix vaccine, are highly effective in preventing shingles and are recommended for adults aged 50 and older, as well as those who are immunocompromised.

via National Geographic|

#adults #complications #health

health3 years ago•3 min saved

Shingles vaccine linked to lower risk of dementia.

A study suggests that people who are vaccinated against shingles in their 70s may reduce their risk of dementia over the next seven years. The varicella-zoster virus that causes shingles has been linked to an increased risk of dementia. The study analyzed health records of people in their late 70s and older who were living in Wales during the rollout of the Zostavax vaccine in September 2013. People who were eligible for the vaccine were 8.5% less likely to be diagnosed with dementia in the follow-up period, compared with those ineligible.

via Livescience.com|

#dementia #health #inflammation

health3 years ago•2 min saved

The Health Complications of Sen. Dianne Feinstein.

Sen. Dianne Feinstein and Justin Bieber were both diagnosed with Ramsay Hunt syndrome, a rare neurological disorder caused by the varicella-zoster virus that can lay dormant in the body after chickenpox or shingles. Symptoms include a painful rash, vertigo, tinnitus, and facial weakness or paralysis. Treatment includes steroids and antiviral medication, and early diagnosis and prompt treatment can improve outcomes. About 70% of people with Ramsay Hunt will regain complete or almost complete function of facial muscles, and recovery time can take up to a year.

via CNN|

#health #neurological-disorder #paralysis