Vaccine Against Zona: Vital for Over 50s

That innocent chickenpox disease that we all suffered as children can appear years later as “shingles” that upend the quality of life.

Uzm. Dr.
Didem Altay Gazi
Family Medicine

Publication Date:

19/1/2026 10:49 AM

Critical Warning For Over 50s: The Virus In Your Body Can Wake Up At Any Moment!

That innocent chickenpox disease that we all suffered as children can appear years later as “shingles” that upend the quality of life. Experts warn: this virus, lurking in the nerve roots when the immune system weakens, becomes a serious threat, especially after 50 years of age.

First the pain begins, then the rash Shingles is not just a skin disease; it is actually an inflammation of the nerve endings. The disease usually signals with a severe burning and stinging sensation, which spreads in strips on one side of the body. Although the ensuing water-filled bubbles heal within a few weeks, the real danger begins after the rashes have passed.

Beware of “Pain That Lasts for Months”! The most challenging aspect of shingles is that patients can be left alone with severe nerve pain (Postherpetic Neuralgia) that lasts for months or even years, even if the rash heals. Especially in the elderly, these pains cause insomnia, disruption of daily work and a serious loss of quality of life. Moreover, the treatment of these nerve pains, unfortunately, is not as easy as it seems.

Who is more at risk?

  • Individuals over 50 years of age,
  • Those with chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer or rheumatism,
  • those who work under intense stress and have a disturbed sleep pattern,
  • Those who use drugs that suppress the immune system.

Is it possible to be protected? The safest and most effective way to protect against shingles today is vaccination. While the next generation of shingles vaccines provide over 90% protection against the disease, people with the vaccine are able to get through the process much milder and painless even if they get the disease.

What you need to know about the vaccine:

  • It does not contain live viruses, so its reliability is high.
  • Usually administered with an interval of 2-6 months, in total 2 doses.
  • It is quite successful in preventing not only shingles, but also permanent nerve pain.

Experts recommend that all individuals over 50 years of age should be included in the vaccination calendar in consultation with their doctor, even if you have had shingles before, in order to prevent its recurrence.

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