The Pros One of the positive sides of having this vaccine is that it can help protect vulnerable individuals from developing shingles. Individuals who are 60 and above are the ones who are more likely to develop shingles given the age and the weakening immune system. The vaccination will also prevent further complications brought about by shingles to develop. The most prominent of these complications is the postherpetic neuralgia. The varicella-zoster virus primarily attacks the nerves and may cause lasting pain. This pain can even be felt by the sufferer long after the shingles are cured. Although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention do not promote nor discourage the shingles vaccine, studies show that 50% of the people in a control group have positively evaded shingles in comparison to those who were not inoculated.
The Cons One of the drawbacks of the shingles vaccine is the price. The vaccine is expensive, costing about $150 per shot. The vaccine is not covered by medicare or insurance, although, recent negotiations have been to approve of paying for the vaccine minus the doctor?s professional and administration fee. Another drawbacks is that this vaccine can trigger an allergic reaction. Individuals who are allergic to the contents of the vaccine can go into anaphylactic shock. If you are planning to have the vaccine, through assessment of allergies as well as medical history must be done. The vaccine contains components like gelatin, and antibiotic components like neomycin. This should also not to be given to individuals who have a weakened immune system. Individuals who are going through chemotherapy, those having problems with the bone marrow, or those that are taking immunosupressants are not to have Zostavax shots.
The Alternative One of the longer used alternatives to fight against shingles is antiviral drugs and Vitamin C. Antiviral drugs can be taken orally in syrup or pill form. Although, this will not entirely cure the problem but, it will help in reducing the length of the cycle. Vitamin C has long been used to strengthen the immune system and help it fight against the disease. High dose of Vitamin C are either taken orally or infused intravenously as therapy for shingles treatment. Generally, the call to get or not to get the shingles vaccine lies entirely in your hands. If your pros weigh more than your cons then getting a vaccine is the best way to go.
