OTTAWA, Sept. 16, 2014 /CNW/ - The Canadian Dermatology Association's (CDA) mission is to promote the highest quality standards for dermatologic care in Canada and have issued a position statement on the Herpes Zoster vaccine.
Herpes zoster, or shingles, results from reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which lies dormant in the spinal and cranial sensory ganglia following a primary infection with varicella (chickenpox), usually during childhood. The most frequent complication is post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), which typically has a major adverse impact on quality of life, especially in elderly persons.
A vaccine that may limit the occurrence of herpes zoster is currently available in Canada. It is a live, mercury-free, attenuated vaccine that is indicated for the prevention of herpes zoster in adults over the age of 50 years. In the pivotal efficacy trial, the vaccine reduced the incidence of Herpes Zoster by 51.3% in the study population of 38,546 adults greater than 60 years of age.
The Canadian Dermatology Association recommends discussing with your primary physician or your dermatologist whether the Herpes Zoster vaccine is right for you. The CDA's position statement on the Herpes Zoster vaccine can be downloaded at dermatology.ca.
About CDA
The Canadian Dermatology Association, founded in 1925, represents Canadian dermatologists. The association provides easy access to the largest, most reliable source of medical knowledge on dermatology. CDA exists to advance the science and art of medicine and surgery related to the care of the skin, hair and nails; provide continuing professional development for its members; support and advance patient care; provide public education on sun protection and other aspects of skin health; and promote a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. By doing so, CDA informs and empowers both medical professionals and the Canadian public.
SOURCE: Canadian Dermatology Association
Jennifer Scott, Director of Communications
Office: 613.738.1748 | 1.800.267.3376 Ext. 222
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