Shingles, also known as zoster or herpes zoster, is a painful skin rash caused by the varicella zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox.. Anyone who has recovered from chickenpox may develop shingles; even children can get shingles. However, the risk of getting the disease increases as a person gets older. Vaccination is the best protection against shingles and its complications.
A vaccine is now available. Shingrix © vaccine is a new vaccine that helps prevent shingles.The vaccine is recommended for people age 50 and older. No prescription is required for the vaccine against shingles. You only have to call to make an appointment.