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Review
. 2013 May;9(5):1177-84.
doi: 10.4161/hv.23491. Epub 2013 Jan 16.

Vaccination against herpes zoster in developed countries: state of the evidence

Mélanie Drolet  1 , Michael N Oxman, Myron J Levin, Kenneth E Schmader, Robert W Johnson, David Patrick, James A Mansi, Marc Brisson
Affiliations
Review

Vaccination against herpes zoster in developed countries: state of the evidence

Mélanie Drolet et al. Hum Vaccin Immunother. 2013 May.

Abstract

Although progress has been made in the treatment of herpes zoster (HZ) and postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), available therapeutic options are only partially effective. Given evidence that a live-attenuated varicella-zoster-virus vaccine is effective at reducing the incidence of HZ, PHN and the burden of illness, policymakers and clinicians are being asked to make recommendations regarding the use of the zoster vaccine. In this report, we summarize the evidence regarding the: (1) burden of illness; (2) vaccine efficacy and safety; and (3) cost-effectiveness of vaccination, to assist evidence-based policy making and guide clinicians in their recommendations. First, there is general agreement that the overall burden of illness associated with HZ and PHN is substantial. Second, the safety and efficacy of the zoster vaccine at reducing the burden of illness due to HZ and the incidence of PHN have been clearly demonstrated in large placebo-controlled trials. However, uncertainty remains about the vaccine's duration of protection. Third, vaccination against HZ is likely to be cost-effective when the vaccine is given at approximately 65 y of age, if vaccine duration is longer than 10 y.

Keywords: burden of illness; cost-effectiveness; herpes zoster; postherpectic neuralgia; vaccination.

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Figures

None
Figure 1. Impact of herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia on the quality of life. (A) Problems in mobility (B) Problems with self-care (C) Problems in performing usual activities (D) Pain and discomfort (E) Anxiety and depression.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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