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Varicella Vaccine and Risk of Shingles

Varicella disease (chickenpox) and shingles (herpes zoster) are caused by the "varicella zoster virus," or VZV. Shingles manifests as a painful skin rash, often accompanied by blisters. This occurs when the VZV virus resurfaces in a person who has already had chickenpox. Since the varicella vaccine contains a live but weakened form of the VZV virus, concern exists that the vaccine may cause shingles in some individuals, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

  1. Who's at Risk

    • People 50 years and older most commonly develop shingles, although the disease can appear in children.

    VZV Transmission

    • Shingles is not contagious, but a person with active shingles can transmit VZV to someone who has never had chickenpox through exposure to an open rash. The exposed person may develop chickenpox---not shingles.

    Varicella Vaccination

    • Varicella vaccine prevents varicella disease, not shingles. However, a December 2009 Kaiser Permanente study (http://journals.lww.com/pidj/Abstract/2009/12000/Incidence_of_Herpes_Zoster_Among_Children.11.aspx ) found that vaccinating children against chickenpox also reduces their risk of developing shingles. It is unclear whether the protection lasts into adulthood.

    Shingles Risk

    • The risk of developing shingles after infection with VZV virus in its natural state is higher than the risk following varicella vaccination.

    More Research Needed

    • Additional follow-up for longer time periods will be necessary to determine the risk and/or benefit of varicella vaccination with regard to shingles.

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