Key Takeaways
Getting ashingles vaccinemay do more than just prevent you from getting the illness.
Shingles is a viral infection resulting from the reactivation of the varicella zoster virusthe same virus that causes chickenpox.
The infection causes a painful rash that develops on one side of the body.
Samara Heisz / Getty Images.
He said that any acute illness, like shingles, can create a heightened inflammatory state in the body.
Whilestrokescan occur in different ways, the most common is an ischemic stroke.
Gitig said the varicella zoster virus likely travels into artery walls via nerve fibers.
Researchers also found that the elevated risk could persist for 12 years or more after having the infection.
Who Is the Shingles Vaccine For?
Mbinta said the shot is safe for someone with a history of heart disease and stroke.
So even for those who have had a stroke, taking the vaccine is helpful.
Victoria University of Wellington.Shingles vaccine reduces risk of stroke and heart attack from virus, study suggests.
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.What is a heart attack?.
2022;11(23):e027451.
doi:10.1161/JAHA.122.027451
Brigham and Womens Hospital.Shingles associated with increased risk for stroke, heart attack.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Shingles (herpes zoster): vaccination.
