Inactivated zoster vaccine

Inactivated zoster vaccine is indicated for the prevention of shingles in people that are 50 years old or older, including those who previously received a live zoster vaccine (Zostavax). It is worth noting that shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox in children, and so what Inactivated Zoster vaccine simply does is help prevent it. Basically, this vaccine works by exposing you to a small dose of inactive virus, causing the body to develop immunity to the disease. However, this vaccine will not treat an active infection that has already developed in the body. Like any medicine, Inactivated zoster vaccine can cause side effects, but the risk of serious side effects is extremely low. You should nevertheless call your doctor if you have a high fever. As for the other side effects, they include headache, muscle pain, tiredness, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. You must tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this vaccine, considering it is still not known whether it will harm an unborn baby. Plus, it may not be safe to breastfeed a baby shortly after you receive Inactivated zoster vaccine. So, make sure you also ask your doctor about any risks.