:format(jpeg):fill(f8f8f8,true)/s3/static.nrc.nl/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/fritsartikel-1.png "Column: It's Called Shingles")
Column: It’s Called Shingles
- Shingles, a condition caused by the varicella-zoster virus – the same virus that causes chickenpox – can be a painful and debilitating illness, especially for older adults.
- The writer's initial lighthearted view of shingles shifted after hearing firsthand accounts of its impact.A Dutch pen friend in Canada described experiencing intense itching and stabbing pain across...
- Driven by these personal accounts,the author began researching shingles,consulting descriptions,recommendations,and a broadcast of the TV program Radar.
Understanding Shingles: Symptoms, Risks, and Vaccination
Table of Contents
- Understanding Shingles: Symptoms, Risks, and Vaccination
- Understanding Shingles: Your Questions Answered
- What is Shingles?
- What Are the Symptoms of Shingles?
- Who is at Risk for Shingles?
- Is Shingles Contagious?
- Why is Vaccination Vital?
- What Information Influenced the Decision to get Vaccinated?
- How Much Does the Shingles Vaccine Cost?
- Is the Shingles Vaccine Typically Covered by Insurance?
- Key Takeaways about Shingles
Shingles, a condition caused by the varicella-zoster virus – the same virus that causes chickenpox – can be a painful and debilitating illness, especially for older adults. While often initially perceived as a minor ailment, the reality of shingles can be far more severe, prompting increased awareness and preventative measures.
Personal Encounters Highlight Severity
The writer’s initial lighthearted view of shingles shifted after hearing firsthand accounts of its impact.A Dutch pen friend in Canada described experiencing intense itching and stabbing pain across her upper body. later, a retired colleague recounted suffering from swollen, red, and itchy spots on his face, emphasizing the severity of the condition and strongly recommending vaccination, despite the cost.
Seeking Information and Overcoming Hesitation
Driven by these personal accounts,the author began researching shingles,consulting descriptions,recommendations,and a broadcast of the TV program Radar. Initially hesitant to delve into information about potential illnesses,the author recognized that such avoidance could be detrimental,especially considering the increased risk and potential complications associated with shingles in older age.
The Varicella-Zoster Virus and Contagion
Information from the dutch association for Dermatology and Venereology (NVDV) clarifies that shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the body, residing in a nerve ganglion near the spinal cord. Under certain circumstances, the virus can reactivate, leading to shingles. The NVDV also notes that shingles is contagious to individuals who have not had chickenpox. The elderly and those with serious illnesses are considered to be at higher risk.
Vaccination Considerations
Following this research, the author, age 78, concluded that vaccination was a prudent step. This decision aligns with a broader trend, particularly after the Radar broadcast, which saw increased demand for the shingles vaccine, despite its cost – reportedly between 400 and 450 euros for two injections. The Health council also advises vaccination. While the vaccine is not typically covered by basic insurance, one expert suggested that the cost may decrease over time.
The Urgency of Prevention
For older adults, the prospect of waiting for a more affordable vaccine raises concerns. The potential for severe complications from shingles underscores the importance of timely preventative measures.
Understanding Shingles: Your Questions Answered
What is Shingles?
Shingles is a painful and perhaps debilitating illness.It’s caused by teh varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox. After you’ve had chickenpox, the virus stays dormant in your body and can reactivate later in life, leading to shingles.
What Are the Symptoms of Shingles?
The provided article mentions that an individual experienced “intense itching and stabbing pain.” Others may experience swollen, red, and itchy spots. shingles outbreaks can manifest differently for each person.
Who is at Risk for Shingles?
The article notes that the elderly and those wiht serious illnesses are at higher risk. This is confirmed from information from the dutch association for Dermatology and Venereology (NVDV).
Is Shingles Contagious?
Yes, according to the NVDV, shingles is contagious to individuals who have not had chickenpox. This means someone who has never had chickenpox can contract chickenpox from someone with shingles.
Why is Vaccination Vital?
The author, age 78, decided that vaccination was a prudent step. Preventative measures are important because shingles can lead to severe complications.
What Information Influenced the Decision to get Vaccinated?
The author was influenced by personal accounts of the severity of shingles. These accounts included a pen friend and a retired colleague who shared their experiences with the illness. Research and a broadcast of the TV program *Radar* also played a role in the author’s decision.
How Much Does the Shingles Vaccine Cost?
According to the article, the shingles vaccine cost between 400 and 450 euros for two injections. The article notes that an expert suggested costs may decrease over time.
Is the Shingles Vaccine Typically Covered by Insurance?
The article states that the shingles vaccine is not typically covered by basic insurance.
Key Takeaways about Shingles
To summarize the key points from the article, here’s a quick overview:
- Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox.
- It can be very painful.
- The virus can reactivate from a dormant state.
- Older adults and those with serious illnesses are at higher risk.
- Vaccination is recommended for prevention.