The Shingrix shingles vaccine could play a crucial role in delaying or possibly preventing the onset of dementia more effectively than its predecessor, Zostavax.
Recent studies reveal that Shingrix, available since 2017, lowers the risk of developing dementia by 17 percent over six years compared to the older Zostavax vaccine. This association highlights the potential benefits of shingles vaccination in combating dementia.
Shingles arises when the varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox, is reactivated in individuals with weakened immune systems, resulting in painful rashes that may lead to complications. With age being a significant risk factor for shingles, health experts recommend vaccination for those aged 50 and over in the US and 65 and over in the UK, along with a booster shot approximately six months later.
Until recently, Zostavax, a live-virus vaccine, was the standard. Though linked to a reduced risk of dementia, its efficacy has come under scrutiny in comparison to Shingrix, a recombinant vaccine that employs a small piece of viral DNA to stimulate an immune response, enhancing its effectiveness against the virus.
A recent study led by researchers at the University of Oxford analyzed medical records of 207,674 individuals, focusing on those vaccinated after the release of Shingrix in November 2017. Their findings indicated that individuals vaccinated with Shingrix were 17 percent less likely to develop dementia within six years compared to those who received Zostavax.
The data suggested that women may derive greater benefits from the newer vaccination, despite similar rates of shingles among genders. Although the exact reasons for the dementia risk reduction remain unclear, the protective effect of Shingrix against herpes zoster infections might contribute to its efficacy in reducing dementia risk.
Experts note that while the study is well-executed, reliance on medical records limits the information available regarding lifestyle factors that could influence dementia risk. Furthermore, previous research has indicated that various vaccines could lead to decreased dementia rates, prompting discussions about whether the immune system’s general boost from vaccinations could play a role.
