Breaking News: Romania Set to Welcome First Zoster Vaccine
In a groundbreaking move, Romania is set to introduce a new vaccine that protects against one of the most painful conditions: Zoster, also known as shingles. Dr. Gindrovel Dumitra, coordinator of the Vaccinology Group at the National Society of Family Medicine, made the announcement, revealing more details to Adevarul journalists.
The vaccine, named Shingrix, is produced by Glaxo and is approved by the European Medicines Agency. It has already been available and administered abroad but is new to Romania. The Romanian National Medicines Agency has not yet provided its assessment, but it is expected soon.
Dr. Dumitra explained that the vaccine is designed for people over 50, as they are more susceptible to Zoster due to decreased immunity that comes with age. She also noted that individuals with chronic illnesses or those undergoing immune-suppressing treatments are at higher risk.
Vaccination Schedule for Zoster
Shingrix is the second vaccine of its kind currently in use internationally. The first, Zostavax, was introduced around a decade ago in Western countries. Dr. Dumitra explained that Romania did not acquire it due to a lack of interest from pharmaceutical companies in a market where adult vaccination isn’t typically emphasized.
The Shingrix vaccine requires two doses, administered two months apart, followed by a booster. The interval for the booster hasn’t been determined yet and will be announced later.
Zoster vs. Chickenpox: Understanding the Link
Dr. Sandra Alexiu, president of the Bucharest-Ilfov County Association of Family Medicine, clarified the distinction and connection between Zoster and chickenpox. Both are caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Chickenpox is the initial infection, while Zoster occurs later in life when the virus reactivates, usually due to a decrease in immunity.
Zoster typically manifests as a painful, itchy rash on one side of the body, often in a belt-like pattern along the path of a nerve. The rash can be contagious, spreading chickenpox to those who haven’t had the virus or haven’t been vaccinated. Zoster is also characterized by severe, debilitating pain that can persist after the rash has disappeared.
Zoster Risk for Vaccinated Children
Finally, Dr. Alexiu addressed the concern of vaccinated children who still contract chickenpox. "These children will have a mild form of the disease, with fewer symptoms and no scarring. More importantly, they will not develop Zoster later in life," she reassured.
With the imminent arrival of the Shingrix vaccine, Romania takes a significant step forward in preventive healthcare for adults.