Zostavax and Post-herpetic Neuralgia – What You Need to Know

The Zostavax vaccine has been linked to several different health conditions. One of these complications is a condition known as post-herpetic neuralgia. Here’s a quick look at Zostavax, and some of the signs that you may be experiencing post-herpetic neuralgia.

What is Zostavax?

Zostavax is a live attenuated vaccine made from the varicella-zoster virus, which is the virus that causes chickenpox as well as shingles. If you had chickenpox as a child, you can still contract shingles. That’s because the virus remains in the body lying dormant where it can reactivate years later. The version of varicella-zoster found in Zostavax is in a weakened state. It’s meant to work with the immune system to lower your risk of developing shingles.

The problem with Zostavax is that many users allege the vaccine actually caused them to develop shingles, rather than reducing the chances they would get the condition. Users have not only reported shingles, but also other serious complications. These include cardiovascular issues, loss of hearing, pneumonia and post-herpetic neuralgia.

Warning Signs of Post-Herpetic Neuralgia

If you received a Zostavax vaccination, you may be at a higher risk of developing shingles. As a result, you may also develop post-herpetic neuralgia. This is one of the most common complications of shingles.

This condition damages the skin as well as nerve fibers. It leads to severe, burning pain that can remain well after the blisters associated with shingles are gone.

Symptoms of post-herpetic neuralgia include skin sensitivity. Some people are so sensitive they find it hard for clothes to touch their skin. Other symptoms include sharp, burning pain as well as severe itching. Numbness of the skin may also occur.

Contact Baron & Budd

If you suffered complications after taking Zostavax, Baron & Budd may be able to help. Call 866-723-1890 or complete our contact form to learn more. You are not alone; many people who received Zostavax have filed lawsuits against Merck, the company that manufactures the vaccine. They claim Merck knew Zostavax was not safe, yet chose to market it anyway.