Can People Over 80 Get Shingles? What You Need to Know

An estimated half of all people over age 80 will experience shingles. Yes, people over 80 can get shingles, and understanding the heightened risks and preventive measures is crucial for senior health.

Quick Summary

Yes, people over 80 are at a significantly increased risk of developing shingles and experiencing more severe complications, primarily due to the natural weakening of the immune system that comes with advanced age.

Key Points

• High Risk for Seniors: As the immune system naturally weakens with age, people over 80 face a significantly higher risk of contracting shingles.

• Serious Complications: Seniors are more likely to experience severe complications, including postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), which can cause long-term nerve pain.

• Vaccination is Key: The Shingrix vaccine is highly recommended and effective for adults over 50, including those over 80, to prevent shingles and its complications.

• Early Treatment is Crucial: If an outbreak occurs, starting antiviral medication within 72 hours can shorten the illness and reduce the severity of symptoms.

• Watch for Eye Involvement: Shingles near the eye is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention to prevent potential vision loss.

• Preventative Measures: In addition to vaccination, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing stress can help support immune function and reduce risk.

Why the Risk of Shingles Increases with Age

The varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which causes chickenpox, remains dormant in nerve tissue after recovery. A weakened immune system, common in older adults, can allow the VZV to reactivate as shingles. This increased risk is particularly notable for those over 50 and even more so for individuals over 80.

Serious Complications for Seniors Over 80

Seniors over 80 face a higher risk of serious complications from shingles.

Postherpetic Neuralgia (PHN)

PHN is the most frequent complication, causing persistent nerve pain after the rash heals. The likelihood and severity of PHN increase with age.

Ophthalmic Shingles

Shingles affecting the eye area can lead to significant pain, infection, and potential permanent vision loss, requiring immediate medical attention.

Neurological Problems

Rarely, shingles can cause brain inflammation, facial paralysis, or issues with hearing or balance. For immunocompromised older adults, these can be life-threatening.

Increased Risk of Cardiovascular Events

Some research links shingles to a higher risk of stroke and heart attack following infection.

Dementia Risk

Older adults who have had shingles, especially ophthalmic shingles, may have an increased risk of developing dementia.

Other Complications

Other potential issues include bacterial skin infections and pneumonia, which can be life-threatening for those with weakened immune systems.

Prevention: The Shingles Vaccine

The CDC recommends the Shingrix vaccine for healthy adults aged 50 and older. This two-dose vaccine series is highly effective at preventing shingles and complications. Even those who have had shingles or the older Zostavax vaccine should receive Shingrix.

What to Do If Someone Over 80 Has Shingles

Prompt medical care is vital for a potential shingles outbreak in a senior. Antiviral medications are most effective when started within 72 hours of the rash.

Steps for a potential shingles outbreak:

1. Seek immediate medical advice: Early diagnosis and treatment can reduce severity, duration, and the risk of PHN.
2. Manage discomfort: Pain relief, cool compresses, and oatmeal baths can help.
3. Prevent spread: Cover the rash and maintain good hygiene to avoid spreading the virus to those who haven't had chickenpox.
4. Monitor for complications: Be alert for signs of complications, especially around the eyes, which require emergency care.

Shingrix vs. Zostavax: A Comparison for Seniors

Feature	Shingrix (RZV)	Zostavax (Live-Attenuated)
Availability	Available in the U.S.	No longer available in the U.S. since 2020
Recommendation	Recommended for adults ≥50 and immunocompromised adults ≥19	Formerly recommended for adults ≥60; now obsolete
Type	Recombinant, non-living vaccine	Live-attenuated vaccine
Dosage	Two doses, 2–6 months apart	Single dose
Effectiveness (70+ years)	>90%	41%
Duration of Protection	At least 7 years	Around 5 years
Immunocompromised Patients	Can be given to immunocompromised individuals	Not recommended for immunocompromised individuals

Conclusion

While the risk of shingles increases significantly with age, particularly for those over 80, it is not inevitable. The naturally weakened immune system of older adults heightens vulnerability to shingles and serious complications like PHN and vision loss. The highly effective Shingrix vaccine offers crucial protection. Early medical attention and antiviral treatment are essential if an outbreak occurs. Understanding these risks and utilizing preventative measures like vaccination can significantly lower the chances of experiencing this painful condition. For more information, visit the CDC website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can people over 80 get shingles if they’ve already had it once?

Yes, having shingles once does not guarantee lifelong immunity. The virus can reactivate again, especially in older adults with declining immune systems. Getting the Shingrix vaccine is recommended even if you've already had shingles to prevent recurrence.

How effective is the Shingrix vaccine for those over 80?

Studies show that in adults aged 70 and older, the Shingrix vaccine is over 90% effective at preventing shingles. While its efficacy can slightly wane over time, it provides strong, long-lasting protection.

Are older people more likely to get postherpetic neuralgia (PHN)?

Yes, the risk of developing PHN, a painful complication of shingles, increases significantly with age. Older adults, particularly those over 80, are most susceptible to this long-term nerve pain.

What are the first signs of shingles in an elderly person?

Early symptoms often include pain, burning, tingling, or itching on one side of the body or face, followed by a red rash with fluid-filled blisters a few days later. Some may also experience fever, headaches, or fatigue.

Can shingles be fatal for people over 80?

While shingles is rarely fatal on its own, it can lead to severe complications like pneumonia or encephalitis (brain inflammation), which can have deadly outcomes for older adults with weakened immune systems.

Can a senior get shingles if they don't remember having chickenpox?

Yes. Most adults over a certain age have had chickenpox, even if they don't remember it. The virus can lie dormant for decades before reactivating. Anyone who has had chickenpox is at risk of developing shingles.

What should a caregiver do if an elderly person shows shingles symptoms?

A caregiver should contact a doctor immediately. Early treatment with antiviral medication is most effective when started within 72 hours of the rash appearing. Covering the rash and encouraging rest and hydration are also important.