Summary of the Article: Shingles, Vaccines, and Dementia Risk
This article discusses a growing body of research linking the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) – the virus that causes shingles - too an increased risk of dementia, and how vaccination against VZV may offer protection. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:
The Connection:
* Inflammation, not direct attack: The virus itself doesn’t directly attack brain cells, but the brain’s inflammatory response to the virus is believed to be the problem.
* More shingles = Higher risk: The more episodes of shingles a person experiences, the greater their risk of developing dementia.
Vaccination & Protection:
* Shingrix is superior: The newer shingrix vaccine (inactivated virus) appears more effective than the older Zostavax (live, attenuated virus) in reducing dementia risk. People receiving two doses of Shingrix had an 18% lower risk of dementia within five years of vaccination compared to those receiving a single dose of Zostavax.
* Zostavax also shows benefit: Even the older Zostavax vaccine showed a 35% lower risk of dementia in women over 50 within three years of vaccination. Women aged 80-89 receiving two doses of Shingrix saw a 39% lower risk during the same period.
* Benefits linked to vaccine effectiveness: The protective effects appear to be tied to the duration of the vaccine’s protection as it wanes over time.
Crucial Considerations:
* Study limitations: The study relied on diagnosed cases of shingles in medical records, meaning it’s an indirect measure of VZV reactivation.
* Current recommendations: the VZV vaccine is already recommended for adults over 50 and those with weakened immune systems.
* Limited dementia prevention tools: Current methods to reduce dementia risk are limited in effectiveness.
* Potential for politicization: Experts fear vaccine hesitancy and distrust in medicine could hinder the acceptance of this perhaps beneficial preventative measure.
Overall Message:
The research suggests a compelling link between shingles/VZV and dementia risk, and highlights the potential of vaccination - notably with the Shingrix vaccine – as a preventative strategy.While more research is needed, the current evidence is strong enough for some doctors to recommend vaccination as a way to potentially reduce dementia risk.
