[Minnesotalyn]

I had shinges once too, can you get it a second time?

[Pturner]

Yes, you can get it repeatedly. Russ or anyone, do you recommend it for those under 60 who have had shingles before?

[Russ_Boston]

It has only been approved in the 60+ age group since that was the study group that was used. Yes you can get the vaccine if you've already had shingles. Under 60? Ask your provider.

Good info here: http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd-vac/...s/vac-faqs.htm

[Skip2MySue]

I took a shower and noticed these red spots on my stomach but didn't have the slightest idea what they were. Didn't hurt or itch so I was pleased. I happened to mention to DW the latest body breakdown and she immediately called doctor for an appointment. Yup, I had them. Valtrex for 10 days which makes you nauseous and of course the fun started with the sensitivity. Taking a shower was almost torture with the water touching my skin. Because I'm on Coumadin I could only take Tylenol for pain which helped a little. It has now been 2 1/2 months and although the blisters are gone the discomfort still remains. Fortunately not to the level that it was in the beginning but now it's like a feeling of having a constant sunburn in certain areas and in one arm it's the feeling of it being asleep. Once I return to normal (soon I hope) I will definitely make plans to have the vaccination. It is well worth the expense for a little insurance against another bout.
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[Minnesotalyn]

I had mine 8 years ago in my late 40's and no one mentioned a vacine back then, I hear about it now, so yea I'll make sure I ask about it too.

[Pturner]

The vaccine is fairly new. I don't think it's been around for eight years.

[Russ_Boston]

P - I think they meant the disease.

[tudacee]

I also had shingles in my 40's. Not an experience I'd want to repeat. I recently asked my doctor about getting the vaccine, but she said that because I'd already had the shingle virus, that it wouldn't be that effective for prevention. So, if you HAVEN'T had shingles get the vaccine!

[graciegirl]

I am guessing that this vaccine acts like a booster shot because most of us have had the virus as chicken pox. Sweetie got shingles from our little grandson when he had chicken pox. Both are caused by Herpes Zoster and the medicine that you take after exposure is an antiviral to lessen the effects of the virus.

I am certainly glad you started this thread because you have reminded me that it is important and I have made it a priorty for us to be vaccinated. I am astonished at hearing so many people have had shingles.

I thought it was close to $300 a shot. They offer it at Krogers, our supermarket.

[Pturner]

Originally Posted by tudacee

I recently asked my doctor about getting the vaccine, but she said that because I'd already had the shingle virus, that it wouldn't be that effective for prevention.

Tudacee,
My doctor told me that it was unknown whether the vaccine would prevent shingles from returning if you had already had shingles. That's why I asked previously. I wonder if the question has been/ is being studied further. I'm sure all of us who have had it previously would love to prevent a repeat.

I'm with you, if you haven't had shingles, get the vaccine!