Vaccinations Archive

Shingles is a painful condition caused by the varicella-zoster virus. People typically encounter this virus, which causes chickenpox, in childhood. The virus stays dormant in the body, sometimes for decades, and may re-emerge as shingles. The best way to prevent shingles is by getting vaccinated. People should get the vaccine even if they've had shingles in the past, because it is possible to get shingles more than once. Maintaining healthy habits, such as eating right, getting enough sleep, and managing stress, may also help to prevent shingles by keeping the immune system working well.

A study found that women who were vaccinated against COVID-19 experienced a slight, temporary increase in the number of days between menstrual periods after getting the shot. Experts say the variation is not harmful and does not affect fertility.

With colds, flu, and COVID variants circulating, keeping your immune system healthy is even more important. Advertising would have you believe that some supplement or other is the key to protecting yourself from getting sick, but the best strategies to protect yourself involve common sense and simple steps.

A number of vaccinations are recommended for adults. These include not only the COVID-19 vaccine, but also an annual influenza shot and vaccinations for shingles and pneumococcal disease, among others. A doctor may also recommend additional vaccines depending on a person's individual circumstances, such as planning travel or caring for a newborn. Adults should check periodically to make sure that they are up to date with all of their shots.

Now that a booster shot is recommended for some people who had COVID-19 vaccines, many of us have questions about the right timing, dose, and type of vaccine to seek.

If you are gathering with family or friends during this holiday season there is still a lot of uncertainty around how to help keep everyone as safe as possible from COVID-19 illnesses and hospitalizations, particularly when many people will be traveling. Harvard Health Publishing faculty contributors share their own holiday plans and offer advice for safely enjoying the holidays this year.

In science, true breakthroughs are rare. Some are the result of fortunate accidents, while others come from scientists with the will to pursue a dream despite challenges and obstacles. And when such breakthroughs do happen –– think of penicillin or COVID vaccines –– the whole world benefits from them.