Shingles, a painful viral disease caused by the varicella zoster virus (VZV), the same virus responsible for chickenpox, presents an increasing health risk for older adults, according to GSK Malaysia.
In a statement released today, GSK Malaysia highlighted that the disease often affects individuals aged 50 and above. This is because VZV, which remains dormant in the nervous system after a person has recovered from chickenpox, can reactivate as the immune system weakens with age. GSK also pointed out that more than 90% of adults in this age group are already carriers of the virus.
“As people age, their immune systems become less capable of mounting a strong response to infections, increasing the risk of developing shingles,” said GSK.
Shingles typically manifests as a painful rash, often in the form of blisters that follow a nerve path, usually on one side of the torso. The rash can also appear on the face, neck, or around the eyes. The pain associated with shingles is commonly described as aching, burning, stabbing, or shock-like.
The condition can severely disrupt daily activities, such as dressing, walking, and sleeping. Additionally, shingles can lead to post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), a complication where nerve pain persists for months or even years after the rash has healed.
PHN is the most common complication of shingles, affecting up to 30% of cases, particularly in older adults. Other potential complications include scarring, vision problems (if the rash affects the eye), and partial paralysis or weakness in areas served by the affected nerves.
GSK Malaysia urges the public, especially older adults, to consult healthcare professionals about preventive measures to reduce the risk of shingles and its complications. For more information, individuals are encouraged to visit GSK’s official website.
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