Current shingles vaccine linked to lower risk of coronary heart disease, stroke and heart failure

Shingles is a painful and serious condition affecting many older people. It is caused by the herpes zoster virus, which can flare up in people who previously had chickenpox. A vaccine against shingles (Zostavax) was introduced in 2006. In many countries, including the U.K. and U.S., Zostavax has now been withdrawn and replaced by a much more effective recombinant vaccine (Shingrix). In the U.K., Shingrix is being offered by the NHS to all older people and certain other groups.