ZOSTAVAX(TM) approved in Canada - The first and only vaccine for the prevention of shingles Aug 26, 2008
"In fact, two out of three cases of shingles occur in people over 50. This newest adult vaccine will contribute to keeping Canadian adults healthy and active." 64 per cent efficacy in people aged 60 to 69 ZOSTAVAX(TM) is a powder form of the Oka/Merck strain of live varicella-zoster virus that is attenuated, meaning it can no longer cause disease. The vaccine uses essentially the same ingredients as VARIVAX(R), Merck Frosst's chickenpox vaccine, but has higher potency in order to induce a... (Canada Newswire)
Chickenpox Protection: Get That Booster Aug 10, 2008
Chickenpox, which is caused by an infection by the varicella-zoster virus, typically starts as a rash on the face that spreads. The rash begins as red bumps that become blisters. (Health-Finder)
New Hope against the Cold Sore Virus Jul 4, 2008
Nevertheless, the findings could apply to the whole range of herpes viruses, including herpes simplex 2, which causes genital herpes, and the varicella zoster virus, which causes chickenpox and a more chronic, painful condition known as shingles. In fact, Umbach said, the Duke group plans to target the shingles virus in their next round of research. (MEDLINEplus)
Shingles vaccine costly, hard to find for seniors Jun 29, 2008
Zostavax can prevent or reduce the impact of shingles, which occurs when the varicella zoster virus, or VZV, which causes chicken pox, re-emerges decades later as a painful nerve infection typified by clusters of blisters that can last weeks, months and, in some cases, become chronic and debilitating. The CDC said a million cases of shingles occur nationwide each year, with 95 percent of all adults at risk. (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, PA)
Pox protection May 28, 2008
It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which is a DNA virus of the herpes virus family. There is only one type and people are the only reservoir of VZV.. (The Star Online, Malaysia -- News)
Shingles Seen to Run in Families May 21, 2008
Shingles is caused by reactivation of varicella zoster virus, which causes chickenpox and then lays dormant in nerve fibers. When it's reactivated, often by trauma or stress, the virus can produce a very painful skin eruption. (MEDLINEplus)
UT Houston dermatologists link family history to shingles susceptibility May 20, 2008
Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox, the varicella-zoster virus. Patients must have had chickenpox to get an outbreak of shingles. (EurekAlert!)
Over 60? New Shingles Vaccine Highly Recommended May 18, 2008
The vaccine reduces the incidence of painful shingles, also known as herpes zoster, which is caused by the reactivation of the varicella zoster virus (VZV). VZV causes the childhood disease, chickenpox, and anyone who has ever had chickenpox can become infected with shingles. (MedHeadlines)
• The invasion of the 'crazy Rasberrys' May 17, 2008
Shingles is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same one that causes chicken pox. There is no cure for shingles, which causes a painful, blistering rash. (Q13.com, WA)
Shingles vaccine urged for older travelers May 16, 2008
The CDC said about 95 percent of all people are infected by the varicella zoster virus, or VZV, in their lifetime, which causes the common childhood disease chicken pox. But after the childhood episode passes, the virus goes dormant within the nerves and can reactivate later in life to cause shingles. (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, PA)
Shingles Vaccine Recommended for Age 60 and Up May 16, 2008
The risk of getting shingles -- caused by the same varicella-zoster virus responsible for the common childhood illness chicken pox -- rises with age starting at around age 50, and is highest among the elderly. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said it is recommending a single dose of Zostavax, the only vaccine to prevent shingles, for people age 60 and older, even if they have had a prior episode of shingles. (Newsmax)
Chicken Pox In Isle Of Wight Feb 27, 2008
Chickenpox is a contagious disease that is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It occurs most commonly in winter and in spring. (WTKR.com, VA)
Shingles, adult whooping cough vaccines underused Feb 18, 2008
The pain starts as the varicella zoster virus re-emerges in someone who has had chickenpox. The virus travels down nerve cells to the skin, where it typically causes a one-sided rash on the face or trunk. (USA Today -- News)
Prednisolone or Acyclovir in Bell’s Palsy Jan 17, 2008
Since zoster sine herpete which can mimic the signs and symptoms of Bell's palsy caused by varicella zoster virus has an incidence rate of up to 34% among patients with "Bell's palsy,"3 information. . (New England Journal of Medicine)
1 million a year seek shingles help Jan 10, 2008
Shingles is caused by varicella-zoster virus, which also causes chicken pox. It is a herpes virus that can linger in the body for decades, becoming reactivated when the immune system is suppressed. (MSNBC -- Health)
Health Highlights: Jan. 9, 2008 Jan 10, 2008
Shingles is caused by infection with varicella-zoster virus, which also causes chicken pox. But unlike chicken pox, shingles is not contagious. (U.S. News & World Report)
New Father, 37, Dies After Contracting Chickenpox Dec 22, 2007
The red, itchy rash is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is part of a group of viruses called herpes viruses. It spreads easily from person to person through the air and physical contact. (Fox News)
Inhibitex: Shingles drug tests well Dec 16, 2007
Published in vitro studies have shown FV-100 is more potent against and can inhibit the replication of varicella zoster virus, the virus that causes shingles, faster than other antiviral therapeutics currently used to treat shingles. Inhibitex believes these characteristics provide the potential for FV-100 to be dosed once-a-day and to reduce the incidence or severity of shingles-related symptoms, including acute pain and post herpetic neuralgia. (Atlanta Business Chronicle, GA)
Mayo Clinic article offers data about shingles virus Dec 13, 2007
Also known as herpes zoster, shingles is an infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Anyone who has had chickenpox can develop shingles because some of the virus lies inactive in the nerves and can reactivate as shingles. (EurekAlert!)
America May Over-vaccinate, According To New Research Nov 9, 2007
Once gathered, the data was then analyzed to determine the level of immunity in each individual for measles, mumps, rubella, chickenpox (Varicella-zoster virus), mononucleosis (Epstein-Barr virus), tetanus and diphtheria over an extended period of time. Upon further examination, researchers found that antibody responses caused by viruses such as measles mumps, and rubella remained at protective levels for several decades and in most cases, for life. (Science Daily)
Humoral Immunity to Viral and Vaccine Antigens Nov 8, 2007
Methods We performed a longitudinal analysis of antibody titers specific for viral antigens (vaccinia, measles, mumps, rubella, varicella zoster virus, and Epstein Barr virus) and nonreplicating antigens (tetanus and diphtheria) in 45 subjects for a period of up to 26 years ... Results Antiviral antibody responses were remarkably stable, with half-lives ranging from an estimated 50 years for varicella zoster virus to more than 200 years for other viruses such as measles and mumps. (New England Journal of Medicine)
Bell’s Palsy — Is Glucocorticoid Treatment Enough? Oct 18, 2007
Approximately a third of cases of acute peripheral facial weakness are caused by trauma, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, eclampsia, the Ramsay Hunt syndrome (facial palsy with zoster oticus caused by varicella zoster virus), Lyme disease, sarcoidosis, Sj. gren's syndrome, parotid gland tumors, and amyloidosis and may even be a complication of intranasal influenza vaccine. (New England Journal of Medicine)
The pros and cons of the shingles vaccine Oct 4, 2007
Published: October 3, 2007. Maybe you haven't heard anything about the shingles vaccine. (International Herald Tribune -- Health)
Children may get chickenpox vaccine Sep 13, 2007
By Rebecca Smith, Medical EditorLast Updated: 2:30am BST 13/09/2007. Children could be vaccinated against chicken pox as Government experts are being convened to investigate the issue. (Telegraph.co.uk)
Tai Chi May Boost Immune Response to Flu Shot Sep 4, 2007
The effects of tai chi on immune function have been less researched, but one recent study found that the practice seemed to enhance older adults' immunity against the varicella-zoster virus, which causes shingles. The current study involved 50 adults in their 70s, about half of whom started a regimen of tai chi and qigong. (MEDLINEplus)
Postdoctoral Research Assistant Aug 18, 2007
Science jobs and vacancies from Nature jobs. Science jobs and vacancies from Nature jobs. (Nature News Service)
A Pregnant Woman with Altered Mental Status Aug 9, 2007
Serologic tests for varicella zoster virus and rubella IgG were positive. Two weeks later, an endocervical specimen was positive for Chlamydia trachomatis infection and negative for gonorrhea. (New England Journal of Medicine)
Shingles vaccine available from county public health Jul 28, 2007
Zostavax is a single-dose vaccine for the prevention of shingles, a very painful skin rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chicken pox. The cost for the vaccine is 175. (Coos Bay-North Bend The World, OR)
Vaccine-maker's problem means an extra shot May 16, 2007
Merck is the only U.S. source for vaccines against the varicella zoster virus, which causes chickenpox in children and shingles in adults. Blake said Merck decided to shift available supply of the key vaccine ingredient against chickenpox - live but weakened varicella virus - from ProQuad to Varivax and its shingles vaccine, Zostavax. (Newsday -- Health)
Tai Chi Enhances Immune Function Apr 23, 2007
The Benefits of Mild Exercise and Meditation. Tai chi, a form of exercise and meditation, has been found to boost immunity and enhance immune function, offering benefits for patients with autoimmune disorders. (Suite101.com)
Tai Chi may help prevent shingles Apr 10, 2007
Shingles caused by the same varicella-zoster virus that also causes chickenpox is commonly experienced by older people whose immunity declines to a degree that the dormant virus gets activated, causing unbearable nerve pain. One in five people who have had chickenpox will get shingles later in life, usually after age 50, and the risk increases as people get older, says National Institute on Aging Director Richard J. Hodes, M.D. More research is needed, but this study suggests that the Tai Chi... (Food Consumer)
Tai Chi boosts immunity to shingles virus in older adults, NIH-sponsored study reports Apr 7, 2007
Tai Chi, a traditional Chinese form of exercise, may help older adults avoid getting shingles by increasing immunity to varicella-zoster virus (VZV) and boosting the immune response to varicella vaccine in older adults, according to a new study publishsed in print this week in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society ... Following a case of chickenpox, a person's nerve cells can harbor the varicella-zoster virus. (EurekAlert!)
Tai Chi Boosts Immune System Against Shingles Mar 27, 2007
Shingles is caused by the varicella zoster virus. People who had chicken pox as children are susceptible to shingles. (MEDLINEplus)
Practicing Tai Chi Boosts Immune System In Older Adults Mar 25, 2007
The 25-week study, which involved a group of 112 adults ranging in age from 59 to 86, showed that practicing tai chi chih alone boosted immunity to a level comparable to having received the standard vaccine against the shingles-causing varicella zoster virus ... The varicella zoster virus is the cause of chickenpox in kids. (Science Daily)
Tai chi boosts elderly immune system against shingles Mar 24, 2007
NEW YORK (Reuters Life. - A slow-movement form of exercise known as tai chi can strengthen the immune system in the elderly and boost the potency of a vaccine against the virus that causes shingles, researchers said on Friday. (Reuters)
Vasculitis Update Mar 21, 2007
Organisms known to trigger vasculitis include hepatitis viruses, human immunodeficiency virus and parvovirus in panarteritis nodosa; streptococci, salmonella, yersinia, mycoplasma, parainfluenza, rotavirus, and human herpes virus 6 (HHV-6) in Kawasaki s syndrome, and streptococci, staphylococci, yersinia, mycobacteriae, varicella zoster virus, hepatitis viruses B and C, cytomegalovirus and influenza virus in leukocytoclastic vasculitis including Schoenlein-Henoch s purpura. Drugs that may mimic... (Suite101.com)
New vaccines available for shingles, HPV Jan 23, 2007
The varicella zoster virus, which causes chickenpox, becomes dormant within the nerves following exposure to or a case of chickenpox. It can reactivate later in life, causing shingles. (Helena Independent Record)
Chickenpox Spreads in Monroe School System Dec 23, 2006
"The following information may be helpful to you in identifying symptoms of chickenpox."Chickenpox, caused by the varicella-zoster virus, is a highly contagious disease transmitted primarily by secretions from the respiratory tract and discharge from the skin lesions of an infected person. "The incubation period is fourteen to twenty-one days after exposure. A day prior to the appearance of a rash your child may exhibit fever, general malaise, loss of appetite and headache."The itchy rash, which... (Voices, CT)
RH Syndrome Diagnosis/Treatment Dec 2, 2006
This is determined by the facial weakness/paralysis, positive blood test for varicella-zoster virus, and lesions in the ear or mouth (not present with Bell's Palsy alone. . (Suite101.com)
Bell's Palsy Lookalike? Nov 28, 2006
RH Syndrome, named after James Ramsay Hunt, is a direct result of a reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (chicken pox) which can lie dormant in a person's system for years ... If a patient has Bell's Palsy resulting from something other than the varicella-zoster virus, it is strictly Bell's Palsy. (Suite101.com)
More of this story Nov 2, 2006
Chicken pox is a very infectious disease, she said, caused by the varicella-zoster virus. "When you contract it," Wright said, "you have a blister-like rash, itching, tiredness and fever.". (Hamburg Ashley County Ledger, AR)
Immunization Experts Recommend 'Shingles' Vaccination Nov 1, 2006
Varicella zoster virus (VZV) causes varicella, or chickenpox and becomes dormant within the nerves following exposure or a case of chickenpox. It can reactivate later in life to cause shingles. (Science Daily)
Shingles prevention is now a shot away: Merck Oct 29, 2006
Shingles is a painful skin disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. The disease causes occurance of painful blisters on various parts of the body. (The Money Times)
Shingles vaccine may become more available Oct 28, 2006
Shingles, sometimes called herpes zoster or zoster, is caused by the varicella zoster virus. When a person is first infected, varicella causes chickenpox. (Oxford Press)
Shingles vaccine for seniors gets the green light Oct 27, 2006
It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Although it is most common in people over age 50, those who have had chickenpox, are at more risk for developing shingles. (News-Medical.net)
U.S. Panel Backs Shingles Vaccine Oct 27, 2006
Shingles, a blistering skin rash, is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. After someone has had chickenpox, the virus lies dormant in nerve tissue. (MEDLINEplus)
US Panel Backs Shingles Vaccine Oct 26, 2006
Shingles, a blistering skin rash, is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. After someone has had chickenpox, the virus lies dormant in nerve tissue. (Forbes)
Shingles shot recommended for those 60+ Oct 26, 2006
Shingles is caused by the Varicella-zoster virus. An estimated 15 percent to 30 percent of people infected with the chickenpox virus develop shingles later in life. (AZCentral -- News)
Shingles vaccine may be more available Oct 25, 2006
Shingles, sometimes called herpes zoster or zoster, is caused by the varicella zoster virus. When a person is first infected, varicella causes chickenpox. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution)
What to do, if anything, about skin tags Sep 21, 2006
Shingles is a reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus that causes chickenpox and remains in your nerve tissue. You should see your doctor immediately if you suspect shingles. (Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier)
Summary for Patients Sep 6, 2006
Shingles results from infection with the varicella zoster virus (the same virus that causes chickenpox) ... A 2005 study showed that the varicella zoster virus vaccine reduces the occurrence of shingles when given to people 60 years of age or older. (Annals of Internal Medicine)
VALERIE LONG: Immunization proves to be life saver Aug 5, 2006
n Varicella - Known as chickenpox, varicella is highly contagious and is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It can affect anyone but usually occurs in children before age 10. (Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal)
Innovative Method For Creating A Human Cytomegalovirus Vaccine Outlined Aug 4, 2006
The virus is a member of the herpes virus family, which includes the herpes simplex viruses, the viruses that cause chicken pox (varicella-zoster virus), and infectious mononucleosis (Epstein-Barr virus. Infectious transmission is via body fluids. (Science Daily)
Shingles rooted in chicken pox past Jul 16, 2006
Chicken pox is a common infection produced by the Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV). Those of us who are old enough recall the days when moms would take their children over to the house of a neighborhood child with chicken pox so that we could all get it at the same time. (Orlando Sentinel -- News)
FDA Approves Shingles Vaccine May 27, 2006
Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox ... "This is the only vaccine that reduces the risk or reactivation of varicella-zoster virus," he added. (Forbes)
FDA Licenses New Vaccine to Reduce Older Americans’ Risk of Shingles May 27, 2006
Shingles is a disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox ... Zostavax, a live virus vaccine, was shown to boost immunity against varicella-zoster virus. (U.S. Food and Drug Administration)
Antiviral Drugs May Fight Shingles Pain May 12, 2006
Shingles, a painful, recurrent nervous disorder, is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Researchers at the University of Colorado and Health Sciences Center in Denver gave antiviral treatment to 12 men and three women with moderate to severe pain following shingles. (MEDLINEplus)
Antiviral Drugs May Help Relieve Nerve Pain Related To Shingles May 10, 2006
Shingles (herpes zoster) is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox, according to background information in the article. The virus lays dormant in the nervous system for decades after infection with chickenpox. (Science Daily)
Perinatal Viral Exposure Linked to Cerebral Palsy Jan 8, 2006
The researchers used dried neonatal blood samples to test for viral nucleic acids from pathogens including herpes simplex viruses 1 and 2, Epstein-Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, human herpes virus 8, varicella zoster virus, and human herpes viruses 6 and 7. The study, of 443 children with cerebral palsy and 883 controls, found that even in the control population, exposure to viruses was high: 39. (MedPage Today)
