Herpes Zoster Vaccine: A Vital Step Over 50

The Importance of the Herpes Zoster Vaccine for Those Over 50 in the UAE

In the United Arab Emirates, health preservation and preventive care are receiving growing attention, especially among the aging population. Recent recommendations suggest that residents over 50 should consider the herpes zoster vaccine—not only to prevent the viral rash but also to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, dementia, and mortality among the elderly.

What is herpes zoster and why is it dangerous?

Herpes zoster (commonly known as shingles) develops due to the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox. Those who had chickenpox during childhood still have the dormant virus in their body, which can reactivate when the immune system weakens, such as in older age.

The disease often comes with painful, blistering rashes that typically appear on one side of the body along nerve pathways. Besides the rashes, burning nerve pain, which can last for months—called postherpetic neuralgia—often occurs. This symptom significantly deteriorates quality of life, disrupts sleep, and can lead to long-term nervous system complications.

Why is the vaccine important in the UAE?

The UAE Ministry of Health officially recommends the herpes zoster vaccine for all adults over 50 and those with immunodeficient conditions. This recommendation is particularly timely, as a 2022 local survey showed that although 64 percent of those over 50 had heard of shingles, only 15 percent were aware of the vaccine's existence, and less than 4 percent had received it.

Data from 2023 does not show significant improvement: while two-thirds of respondents recognized the disease by name, only 2 percent had adequate knowledge about it, and just 4 percent had been vaccinated. This lack of awareness is a significant barrier to prevention—especially in a country where a substantial part of the population is older or at risk due to chronic illnesses.

Not just rashes—the vaccine can also prevent heart and cerebrovascular diseases

Recent research indicates that the herpes zoster vaccine not only reduces the risk of rashes and nerve pain but also provides additional long-term health benefits. According to a study presented at the IDWeek 2025 international medical conference, vaccinated adults had a 50 percent lower risk of vascular dementia, 27 percent lower blood clot formation, 25 percent lower risk of heart attack or stroke, and 21 percent lower mortality risk compared to those who only received the pneumococcal vaccine.

This protective effect is likely due to the reduced reactivation of the virus and a general decrease in the body's inflammatory level—thus, it not only prevents direct symptoms but may also improve the body's overall health condition.

Who is the vaccine recommended for?

In the UAE, the vaccine is available to all adults over 50 and is administered in two doses, approximately six months apart. Global data show that the vaccine is over 90 percent effective in older age groups, providing at least 10 years of protection—although future recommendations for regular booster doses are expected.

The vaccine is also recommended for younger individuals with chronic diseases—such as diabetes, kidney disease, or cancer—or those undergoing immunocompromising treatments, due to their increased risk of infection. Even those who have experienced shingles should consider vaccination, as one episode does not guarantee future immunity.

Not contagious, but can still be a threat to others

It's important to note that shingles itself is not a contagious disease—you cannot 'catch' shingles from someone. However, patients with active rashes can transmit the chickenpox virus to individuals who have never had the disease or been vaccinated. This can be particularly dangerous for pregnant women, newborns, or immunocompromised patients, thus requiring isolation and caution in such cases.

Lack of awareness is the greatest obstacle

The biggest challenge remains the public's lack of awareness. Experts say that the key to prevention and health preservation is being informed: patients need to know that a vaccine exists, its role, and where it can be accessed.

The UAE's preventive health efforts—such as national programs supporting long lives—can only succeed if the populace actively participates in them. The herpes zoster vaccine is a crucial part of this strategy: a simple and safe step that can prevent significant health issues in the long run.

Summary

The herpes zoster vaccine is now available in the United Arab Emirates, and it not only serves to prevent the painful symptoms of shingles but also helps reduce the risks of dementia, cardiovascular diseases, and mortality in the elderly. It's particularly recommended that residents over 50 and those with chronic illnesses consult their doctors about the vaccine, as prevention is always easier and more effective than treatment. This opportunity is increasingly available in Dubai and throughout the UAE—it's just a matter of utilizing it.

(Source of the article: Research presented at the IDWeek 2025 conference.)