Name of the Procedure:

Zoster (Shingles) Vaccine (HZV), Live

• Common Names: Shingles Vaccine, Live Zoster Vaccine
• Medical Term: Herpes Zoster Vaccine, Live Attenuated

Summary

The zoster vaccine is a shot given to prevent shingles, a painful rash caused by reactivation of the chickenpox virus. It's administered subcutaneously, meaning it's injected into the tissue just below the skin.

Purpose

The zoster vaccine helps prevent shingles and its complications, such as postherpetic neuralgia (a severe nerve pain that can last for months or years). The primary goal is to boost the immune system to reduce the likelihood and severity of shingles outbreaks.

Indications

• Adults aged 50 and older.
• Individuals with a history of chickenpox or who had a previous shingles episode.
• Patients without severe immunocompromised conditions.

Preparation

• Generally, no special preparation is needed.
• Inform the healthcare provider of any current medications, allergies, or significant medical conditions.

Procedure Description

1. Assessment and Consent: The healthcare provider will review medical history and discuss the benefits and risks of the vaccine.
2. Preparation: The patient will be asked to sit comfortably, and the injection site (usually the upper arm) will be cleaned with an antiseptic.
3. Injection: Using a fine needle, the healthcare professional will inject the live attenuated vaccine subcutaneously.
4. Post-Injection: The site might be observed briefly for any immediate allergic reactions.

Duration

The injection process typically takes about 15 minutes, including a brief post-vaccination observation period.

Setting

The zoster vaccine is administered in an outpatient clinic, hospital, or by a qualified healthcare provider in other clinical settings.

Personnel

• Primary Care Physician or Nurse Practitioner
• Registered Nurse or Medical Assistant

Risks and Complications

• Common: Redness, swelling, or pain at the injection site.
• Rare: Headache, fever, chickenpox-like rash, or allergic reactions.
• Extremely Rare: Severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis, which require immediate medical attention.

Benefits

• Significant reduction in the risk of developing shingles and its complications.
• Immunity typically builds within a few weeks after vaccination.

Recovery

• Minimal recovery needed; most people can resume normal activities immediately, but they should monitor the injection site for any adverse reactions.
• A follow-up is generally not necessary unless severe side effects occur.

Alternatives

• Recombinant zoster vaccine (non-live) which is recommended for immunocompromised individuals.
• In some cases, antiviral medications may be used to treat shingles if it occurs.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure: Slight discomfort or mild pain at the injection site.
• After the procedure: Possible soreness or redness for a day or two, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Comfort measures: Applying a cool compress to the injection site and taking acetaminophen or ibuprofen if needed.