Shingles Vax

[Guest guest]

Well, I learned a lot about the shingles vaccine today. A patient of

mine came in wanting it. There is a whole rigamarole (sp?) with

Medicare Part D where the doc has to write the prescription, then

they have to take it to their pharmacy, and bring the vial back to

the office....and there is currently a 12 week waiting list I am told

at our local pharmacy.

I talked this particular person out of getting it, but I did do a lot

of reading about it inbetween patients. Apparently the increase in

shingles has occurred since the increase of Varivax immunization, and

lack of exposure to natural chickenpox which would typically give

people a " booster " effect. So in essence they created this one to

deal with the effect of the Varivax. And immunity only " guaranteed "

for 4 years. But 50% of those vaccinated can still get shingles. And

pass the chickenpox to others......Amazing. For the low price of $300

or so ( a lot of insurances won't cover it). Plus the boosters they

will inevitably be recommending after 4 or 5 years.

This is another vaccine that I rolled my eyes at a couple of years

ago. Told people it wasn't worth it, but just on the basis of 50%

efficacy.

It seems like everyday someone is walking in with a different vaccine

issue. I can't keep up!!!!!

I still haven't brushed up for flu season!!! LOL

G