Herpes Zoster (August 2018)

Herpes zoster, also known as zoster or shingles, is caused by the reactivation of the varicella zoster virus. After an individual has been exposed to the varicella virus through chickenpox or via vaccination, the virus remains dormant in the dorsal root ganglia.

Herpes zoster, commonly known as shingles, is characterized by a painful, itchy rash and blisters, often resulting in permanent neuropathic pain (postherpetic neuralgia) that can be difficult to manage.

Pharmacists are now core members of the vaccination community, playing a role in vaccine accessibility, opportunity, identification, and safety.

Prior to vaccines, immunity to a disease was acquired solely through contracting the illness.