We are pleased to announce that the Shingles vaccine is now available at JTS Medical Centre. The shingles vaccine costs AED 865.50 (this excludes consultation or vaccination encounter fees). Most premium insurance policies may cover this vaccine. However, pre-approval is required to proceed with vaccination under direct billing.

 

Our family medicine specialist and licensed nurses can administer the vaccine and provide advice tailored to your needs. Don’t wait; come to JTS Medical Centre today to safeguard your health and well-being.

 

What is Shingles?

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a disease that occurs when the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) reactivates after a primary infection that causes chickenpox. Approximately 10-30% of the population is affected by shingles. After the initial infection, the virus becomes dormant in the sensory ganglia and remains asymptomatic. Shingles can occur anywhere on the body, but they usually appear as a single stripe of blisters that wrap around the left or right side of the torso.

Who is at risk of getting Shingles?

The risk of reactivation of VSV increases with age, which is correlated with reduced VZV-specific cellular immunity. Generally, patients above 50 are at higher risk of developing Shingles. Patients with lower immunity, such as HIV/ cancer patients, are also more prone to develop Shingles. Certain medications, such as immune suppressants and steroids, may also increase the risk of developing shingles.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Shingles?

It can manifest as neural pain and a vesicular skin rash in the dermatome that is innerved by the affected sensory ganglion. It’s an excruciating condition and usually persists even after the healing of the skin lesions (postherpetic neuralgia). Complications of shingles are challenging to manage, and they significantly affect the patient’s quality of life.

Prevention is better than cure?

Immunization against shingles has been recommended in the United States since 2006 for individuals over 60, while those over 50 have been advised since 2011. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control & Prevention), adults 50 years and above should receive two doses of the recombinant zoster vaccine, Shingrix, to prevent shingles and its associated complications. Additionally, those aged 19 years and above who have weakened immune systems due to disease or therapy should receive two doses of Shingrix, as they are at a higher risk of developing shingles and related complications. The Shingrix vaccine is administered in 2 doses, with a 2 to 6-month gap between them. It is recommended to get vaccinated with Shingrix even if you have had shingles or received the Zostavax or varicella vaccines.

What potential side effects can arise from the Shingrix vaccine?

It’s generally safe and well-tolerated. Side effects might include a mild fever, sore arms, tiredness, and body aches for 2-3 days.

Who should not take Shingrix?

Patients experiencing shingles should not take the Shingrix vaccine if they have a severe allergic reaction to any of its components. Additionally, pregnant women should avoid the vaccine. Suppose a patient suffers from a moderate to severe illness, with or without a fever. In that case, it is recommended that they wait until fully recovered before receiving the vaccine.