Epoch HealthShingles Vaccine May Increase Risk of Ocular Shingles Recurrence

Exploring the Intricate Relationship Between Shingles Vaccination and Ocular Shingles Recurrence

A recent study by the University of California–San Francisco has illuminated a nuanced aspect of shingles vaccination, specifically the recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV) or Shingrix, and its potential link to the recurrence of ocular shingles in individuals with a prior history of the condition. This research delves into the complexities of immune response and viral latency, offering vital insights for physicians managing patients with a history of ocular shingles.

Key Points:

• The study indicates that individuals who have received the RZV vaccine after experiencing ocular shingles may have a 1.64 times higher risk of a recurrence compared to those unvaccinated.
• Ocular shingles can manifest in various severities, with potential complications including inflammation inside the eyes and blindness.
• The immune response stimulated by the vaccine might target viral remnants in the eye, potentially triggering a recurrence of ocular shingles.
• The US CDC continues to recommend the RZV vaccine for all individuals over 50 and immunocompromised individuals over 19, despite the study’s findings.
• There is a lack of existing data on the safety of RZV in patients with a history of ocular shingles, leading to hesitancy among some ophthalmologists regarding vaccination recommendations.
• The research utilized insurance claims data to assess recurrence rates, highlighting a need for further investigation into the severity and patient impact of recurrent ocular shingles.
• The study juxtaposes the efficacy of RZV in preventing new shingles cases against the potential risk of ocular shingles recurrence.
• Discussion around the link between COVID-19 vaccines and shingles recurrence is also mentioned, though conclusive evidence is still lacking.

“It’s not a huge increased risk.”
– Lead author Dr. Nisha Acharya, highlighting the nuanced findings of the study regarding the risk of ocular shingles recurrence post-vaccination.

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