The cause of shingles is unclear but related to stress, a weakened immune system, and use of immunosuppressive medications. Those with weakened immune systems may suffer further complications known as postherpatic neuralgia (PHN) which is a burning pain caused by damaged nerve fibers. Most people will recover in 3-5 weeks without serious complications. Red patches on the skin and small blisters may form as well. Symptoms of shingles include early one-sided pain, tingling, or burning. The purpose of the vaccine is to reduce the possibility of getting shingles and or reducing the symptoms and complications. The vaccine is only for adults who previously have had chickenpox. Shingles, also called herpes zoster, occurs when the chickenpox virus reactivates after being inactive for many years in nerve cells. What is the purpose of forcing this shingles vaccine on the American population? In March of 2011 the FDA approved the use of Zostavax for prevention of shingles for adults ages 50-59. A shingles prevention vaccine, Zostavax, was approved in May of 2006 by the FDA for adults 60 years of age and older.
