Summary And Quick Facts For Herpes And Shingles
- Herpes and shingles are both caused by members of the Herpesviridae family of viruses, which can establish latent infections that remain dormant before reactivating at a later time under certain conditions. Herpes simplex virus-1 and herpes simplex virus-2 cause oral and genital herpes, and varicella-zoster virus causes chickenpox in children and shingles later in life.
- In this protocol, you will learn about the viruses that cause herpes and shingles, and how these infections are conventionally treated. Several natural ingredients that may help ease the symptoms of herpes and shingles will also be discussed, and important lifestyle and dietary considerations that can help prevent outbreaks will be examined as well.
- Antiviral medication is the standard treatment for both shingles and herpes. Although there is no effective cure for herpes virus infections, several natural interventions may help reduce the frequency of outbreaks.
Herpes and shingles are both caused by members of the Herpesviridae family of viruses, which can establish latent infections that remain dormant and then reactivate under certain conditions. Herpes simplex virus-1 and herpes simplex virus-2 cause oral and genital herpes, and varicella-zoster virus causes chickenpox in children and shingles later in life.
A Closer Look At The Safety Data
Both Shingrix and Zostavax shingles vaccines have been shown to be safe and well tolerated. Common side effects, such as soreness and redness at the injection site, are usually mild to moderate in intensity and resolve quickly on their own.
Shingrix
In 8 clinical trials of more than 10,000 participants:
- Grade 3 reactions were common after patients received Shingrix.
- About 1 out of 10 adults who received Shingrix reported grade 3 injection-site symptoms such as pain, redness, and swelling.
- About 1 out of 10 reported grade 3 systemic reactions such as myalgia , fatigue , headache, shivering, fever, and gastrointestinal illness.
- Most people who got Shingrix reported at least some pain at the injection site.
Zostavax
- A 2013 study showed that patients with a history of a previous shingles rash had the same side effects after Zostavax as those with no history of shingles. See Safety of zoster vaccine in elderly adults following documented herpes zoster.
Who Should Not Get The Shingles Vaccine
On the other hand, you should not get Shingrix if :
- Youve ever had a severe allergic reaction to a vaccine
- You test negative for a past varicella-zoster infectionmeaning youve never had chickenpox. .
- You currently have shingles.
- Youre currently pregnant or breastfeeding.
- You currently have a cold, flu, or another temporary illness that causes your temperature to rise above 101.3 degrees.
If you have rheumatoid arthritis or some other autoimmune disorder, you may not be a good candidate for the shingles vaccine. If youre not sure, talk with your healthcare provider to determine if you should get Shingrix .
Also Check: How Old Should You Be To Get A Shingles Shot
Preventing The Spread Of Herpes
Even when you do not have sores, you can pass the virus to someone during sexual or other close contact. To protect others:
- Let any sexual partner know that you have herpes before having sex. Allow them to decide what to do.
- Use latex or polyurethane condoms, and avoid sex during symptomatic outbreaks.
- Do not kiss or have oral sex when you have a sore on the lips or inside the mouth.
- Do not share your towels, toothbrush, or lipstick. Make sure dishes and utensils you use are washed well with detergent before others use them.
- Wash your hands well with soap and water after touching a sore.
- Consider using daily antiviral medicine to limit viral shedding and reduce the risk of passing the virus to your partner.
- You may also want to consider getting your partner tested even if they have never had an outbreak. If you both have the herpes virus, there is no risk for transmission.
Who Should Get The Shingles Vaccine
The CDC recommends that all healthy adults 50 and older get Shingrix, even if youve had shingles in the past, arent sure if you ever had chickenpox, or have already had the older Zostavax shingles vaccine . Even if youve had the chickenpox vaccine, the CDC still recommends that you get the shingles vaccine .
Read Also: How Long Should Shingles Pain Last
Herpes Vaccine / Treatment Development News For 2021
– The journal Neurology published a RESEARCH ARTICLE: Herpes Viruses: Associations With Brain Volumes, Cognitive Performance, and Plasma Biomarkers. Discussion. These findings suggest an association of symptomatic herpes viruses infection with white matter volume loss, attentional decline, and astrogliosis.
– Rational Vaccines announced the launch of an observation clinical study of RVx201 in the UK on August 3, 2022, that will recruit about 200 participants. In addition to assessing the typical baseline characteristics of the population, the purpose of this study is also to determine the acceptance of clinical trial procedures and understand the interest of the target patient population to participate in a therapeutic Phase 1/2 HSV-2 vaccine study.
– Rational Vaccines announced findings from a U.S. NIH-funded pilot study of RVX201 that showed that treatment led to a reduction in recurrent genital lesions compared to gD2-alum/MPL vaccine or placebo in vivo. In addition, RVX201 appears to generate a robust cellular immune response equivalent to that elicited by wild-type HSV-2 on Day 7 post-infection.
– Eurocine Vaccines AB announced that it entered into a research and collaboration agreement with Redbiotec AG that transfers the exclusive global rights to develop, manufacture and commercialize vaccine candidates against Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2, HSV-2, based on the technologies developed by Redbiotec.
– Review: The challenge of developing herpes simplex virus 2 vaccines.
Improving Our Immune Response To Control Herpes
T cells embedded in tissues where latent HSV-2 hides are known to play a role in controlling the virus. Hutch scientists are also exploring how B cells, the antibody-making factories of the immune system, also work to keep the virus in check. Hutch researchers hope to build on this understanding to develop immunotherapies to control reactivation, reduce transmission to sexual partners, and design vaccines to prevent infection.
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How Do You Catch Shingles
You do not “catch” shingles it comes on when there’s a reactivation of chickenpox virus that’s already in your body.
After you’ve recovered from chickenpox, the varicella-zoster virus lies dormant in your nerve cells and can reactivate at a later stage when your immune system is weakened.
Anyone who has had chickenpox can get shingles.
Can Genital Herpes Be Treated
Your physician can prescribe different medications to help reduce your symptoms and speed up the healing of an outbreak. These medicines work best when you start them soon after an outbreak occurs.
To reduce pain during an outbreak:
- Sit in warm water in a portable bath or bathtub for about 20 minutes. Avoid bubble baths.
- Keep your genital area clean and dry, and avoid tight clothes.
- Take over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Avoid aspirin.
Let your physician know if you are worried about your genital herpes. He or she can recommend a support group to help you cope with the virus.
Recommended Reading: What Are The Symptoms Of Shingles On The Face
Why Is This Medication Prescribed
Acyclovir injection is used to treat first-time or repeat outbreaks of herpes simplex and to treat herpes zoster in people with weak immune systems. It is also used to treat first-time genital herpes outbreaks in people with normal immune systems. Acyclovir injection is used to treat herpes simplex encephalitis and herpes infections in newborn infants. Acyclovir injection is in a class of antiviral medications called synthetic nucleoside analogues. It works by stopping the spread of the herpes virus in the body. Acyclovir injection will not cure genital herpes and may not stop the spread of genital herpes to other people.
Will There Be Any Side Effects From The Shingles Vaccination
There are 2 shingles vaccines: Zostavax and Shingrix .
With both vaccines it’s quite common to get redness and discomfort at the vaccination site, headaches and fatigue, but these side effects should not last more than a few days. See a GP if you have side effects that last longer than a few days, or if you develop a rash after having the shingles vaccination.
Read more about the shingles vaccine side effects.
Read Also: What To Take For Shingles Headache
Research To Find Better Treatments Vaccines And Cures For Herpes
Human herpesviruses are a family of pathogens that play an outsized role in inflicting pain and misery on people everywhere.Herpes simplex type 1 is responsible for oral herpes, or cold sores. Highly contagious, HSV-1 is estimated to have infected 3.7 billion people, about two-thirds of all people under the age of 50. It can also cause genital herpes through oral sex.Herpes simplex type 2 is the virus responsible for most genital herpes cases. HSV-2 causes recurrent outbreaks of small, painful blisters in a rash that may take 2-4 weeks or more to heal. It can be transmitted even when a person is asymptomatic. About 12 percent of the U.S. population aged 14-49 is infected, about 500 million throughout the world.Symptoms of genital herpes can be eased with antiviral drugs. But there are no vaccinations against herpes. There is no cure.
Problems of this scope demand attention from the worldâs top researchers. Thatâs why Fred Hutch scientists, with a wealth of expertise in virology, have made the study of human herpesviruses a priority.
Is There More Than One Shingles Vaccine
Yes. Along with Shingrix, there is an older shingles vaccine called Zostavax. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention no longer recommends Zostavax, and its no longer available in the U.S. . Thats partly because studies have found that Shingrix lasts longer and is more effective at lowering your risk of shingles .
Recommended Reading: Does Shingles Vaccine Lessen Symptoms
What Other Information Should I Know
Keep all appointments with your doctor. Your doctor may order certain lab tests to check your body’s response to acyclovir injection.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
Disclaimer And Safety Information
This information is not intended to replace the attention or advice of a physician or other qualified health care professional. Anyone who wishes to embark on any dietary, drug, exercise, or other lifestyle change intended to prevent or treat a specific disease or condition should first consult with and seek clearance from a physician or other qualified health care professional. Pregnant women in particular should seek the advice of a physician before using any protocol listed on this website. The protocols described on this website are for adults only, unless otherwise specified. Product labels may contain important safety information and the most recent product information provided by the product manufacturers should be carefully reviewed prior to use to verify the dose, administration, and contraindications. National, state, and local laws may vary regarding the use and application of many of the therapies discussed. The reader assumes the risk of any injuries. The authors and publishers, their affiliates and assigns are not liable for any injury and/or damage to persons arising from this protocol and expressly disclaim responsibility for any adverse effects resulting from the use of the information contained herein.
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How Are Shingles And Herpes Treated
Neither condition can be cured, but treatments are available.
Shingles is treated with both antiviral prescription medications that can speed up your healing and with medications that can help with your pain. Your exact treatment plan will depend on:
- how severe your case is
- your overall health
- the medications you already take
Antiviral options include:
Herpes is also treated with antiviral medication.
Antivirals can help you heal first and reduce your symptoms. Depending on your case and your overall health, you might take these medications during an outbreak or daily.
Options for herpes treatment include both acyclovir and valacyclovir.
Some other pain management options may include:
- numbing patches, gels, or creams you can apply to your skin
- codeine or other narcotic medications
- steroid injections
- anticonvulsants or antidepressants that can control pain
Talk with a doctor before using any of the treatments above. These treatments should not be used without guidance from a medical professional. A medical professional can help you avoid any unintended side effects, such as allergic reactions.
Genital Herpes Treatment Market
The global genital herpes treatment market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.76% during 2022-2028. The Acyclovir segment reported a significant share of around 50% among all drug types. The retail pharmacy segment is showing the highest share due to the availability of branded and generic versions of all antiviral drugs.
Recommended Reading: Over The Counter Shingles Pain
Moderna Starts Clinical Trials For Hiv Vaccine
Moderna is developing a vaccine using mRNA technology to treat the herpes simplex virus . There are two HSV virus types HSV-1, the one I have, that affects the mouth, face and genitals, and HSV-2, which predominantly affects the genitals. However, both viruses can spread to other parts of the body. In the United States, of people aged 14 to 49, 47.8 percent have HSV-1 and 11.9 percent have HSV-2, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Many people living with herpes dont know they have it, which means these figures may be far greater. HSV remains latent in the body, staying alive through the lifelong infection of a given person. When reactivated, HSV results in visible outbreaks. The vaccine will protect against HSV-2 and provide cross-protection for HSV-1 as a suppressive antiviral treatment.
The CDC recommends against widespread testing for herpes as, alongside the risk of false positives, the risk of shaming and stigmatizing people outweighs the potential benefits.
Deidre Olsen is an award-nominated writer based in Berlin. She is writing a memoir about self-destruction, healing and resilience.
Who Should Not Have The Shingles Vaccine
You should not have the shingles vaccine if you’ve had a serious allergic reaction in the past to a previous dose of the shingles vaccine, or to any of the ingredients in the vaccine, or to a previous dose of varicella vaccine.
If you have a weakened immune system a GP or practice nurse will assess which vaccine is suitable for you. Discuss any health concerns with the GP or practice nurse before you have the vaccine.
Zostavax is not suitable for people who have a weakened immune system due to a condition, treatment or medicine.
Recommended Reading: Who Needs A Shingle Shot
How Effective Is The Shingles Vaccine
Very. Research has found that in people older than age 50, Shingrix reduces the risk of developing shingles by 97% . The vaccine isnt quite as effective in older adults among those 70 and older, Shingrix reduces the risk of developing shingles by 90% .
Along with significantly lowering your risk for shingles, Shingrix also reduces your risk for postherpetic neuralgiaa common chronic pain condition that stems from an outbreak of shingles blisters .
Where Herpes Vaccine Research Stands
Although some vaccines for these herpes types have initially appeared to have promise, stringent testing has shown them to be no better than a sham vaccine, or placebo.
With that said, newer approaches to vaccine developmentincluding genetic editinghave begun to show promise in early-stage animal research, offering a glimpse of hope of a possible breakthrough.
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Can The Shingles Vaccine Cause A Genital Herpes Outbreak
Question posted by artsyrsc on 13 Nov 2014
Last updated on 22 August 2022 by ResaW
I got my vaccine on a Friday, felt headachy and rundown all weekend. By Tuesday I was getting an outbreak. I hadn’t had one in a pretty long time and I take acyclovir when I do. Coincidence or a side effect of the vaccine?
ResaW
I have had oral Herpes for ages, but I was fastidious about not infecting my genitals and for decades thought I had succeeded.
After the 2nd shot of Shingrix I developed genital herpes :-/
These outbreaks are more common than they ever were on my mouth and I’m sad.
Not saying correlation means causation by any means, but I thought I should add this bit of anecdotal evidence for this question.
+0Snowy-8Sugar13
I am 50, diagnosed with HSV2 thru blood work a few years ago, but never had an outbreak before. I got 2nd Shingrix a couple of weeks ago. Arm pain and body aches with fatigue for a couple of daysthen a genital outbreak. I had no clue what it was since Ive never had an outbreak before. Luckily it was small and minimal pain. Coincidence? I didnt think so until I read here.
+1jaxonp+1Em6638
Something happened to me a herpes outbreak after the Shingles Vaccine. I Had not had outbreak in 15 yrs.
+1Salsify+0SEM42SalsifySEM42
for anyone reading this: if you get a strong vaccine , TAKE VALACYCLOVIR AT THE TIME YOU GET THE VACCINE, A HIGH DOSE LIKE 2 GM. and keep taking it for about 2 days. this should help block any reactivation. I wish I had known.
+1+1
Dear Doctor: Its Important To Get The Shingles Vaccine Even If Youve Already Had Shingles
Dr. Keith Roach is a physician at Weill Cornell Medical College and New York Presbyterian Hospital. He writes an educational column on infectious diseases, public health and sports medicine. We’re running his columns for a month to see if readers enjoy them.
DEAR DR. ROACH: I am a 78-year-old female, and I am in my 10th week of shingles. I have them on my left chest and back and on my upper arm. I cant go anywhere because I cant stand when my clothes or bra touches me. I now have severe shooting pains on my arm area, mostly at night but also during the day. The rash on my chest, although mostly healed, is still very painful. Im desperate for help. I use lidocaine, which helps for an hour or so. This is my second bout of shingles. I had them 10 years ago. I was advised by my internist not to get the shingles vaccine after that last bout. Is there anything I can do? — P.C.
ANSWER: Shingles, also called herpes zoster, is caused by the recurrence of the chickenpox virus after years or decades of the virus being dormant. The herpes virus can escape the immune system during times of stress or simply as we age.
Pain around the time of shingles is nearly universal, but the duration of time is variable. The type of pain you have now is caused by damage to the nerve and is called acute neuritis.
Treatment of acute zoster, preferably within 24 hours of the onset of rash, but certainly within 72 hours, with antiviral medications can also help prevent PHN.
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Also Check: Best Homeopathic Remedy For Shingles Pain