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1st Trimester
Shingles Vaccine
An older friend of mine is considering getting the shingles vaccine. She is worried she may get a shingles outbreak because it happened to a friend of hers recently. At the moment her main concern is about me and my baby's safety. She is afraid it will hurt us. I told her I would ask questions and get her an answer before her appt. I have time to ask my Dr., but I was wondering if anyone else has had the same concerns. Thank you.
JodiR4
This discussion has been closed.
Re: Shingles Vaccine
Shingles comes from herpes zoster, a derivative of herpes varicella (chicken pox virus) that is remaining in the bloodstream of people as they age. Outbreaks can come from exposure to other people having outbreaks of chicken pox or shingles, as well as be caused by stress or other health issues. The only possible effect that your friend could have on you and your baby if she were to have an outbreak would be to expose you to the virus itself. If you've never had chicken pox, then that's an issue. If you have, you should be fine but it could still affect the baby (who's never been exposed). You should avoid her until she can be on a suppression antiviral for a few days.
If she's concerned about the vaccine itself in regard to you and the baby, she should have absolutely nothing to worry about. If she wants reassurance, both you and she should talk to your respective doctors.
I've had repeated shingles outbreaks since I had viral meningitis in 2003. They put me on a daily dose of an antiviral which has kept it suppressed for quite awhile. I would've been eligible for the vaccine this year, but due to the pregnancy, I can't have it (it could result in an outbreak as a side effect since I'm already prone to them). I would definitely recommend getting the vaccine as dealing with them is incredibly uncomfortable and annoying.
It only affects you if you've never had chicken pox.
I haven't checked recently but I'm pretty sure the fine print of the chicken pox and shingles vaccines say that you'll be contagious for a little while after getting the shot---even so, you will still probably be fine. Talk to your doctor.
Want to add:
Being exposed to shingles actually strengthens/renews your immunity to chicken pox (if you already have immunity). I didn't mention this in my above post only because pregnant women have weakened immune systems, and I don't know if that still holds true. (Alternately, people who are grandparents are less likely to get shingles because of their exposure to chicken pox via having kids in their lives).