Washington, North Carolina, September 7, 2025
News Summary
As North Carolina faces rising concerns over shingles amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, new vaccination strategies are being developed to enhance community immunity. The varicella zoster virus can reactivate as shingles, particularly in older adults or those with weakened immune systems. Local healthcare providers emphasize the importance of vaccinations, including the CDC-recommended Shingrix for individuals 50 and older. Meanwhile, Beaufort County is adapting to limited COVID-19 vaccine supplies, stressing the critical need for vaccination to protect individual and community health.
Washington, North Carolina — New strategies for administering vaccines are being developed amidst rising concerns about shingles and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic in North Carolina. As the state continues to navigate these health challenges, both local healthcare providers and residents are encouraged to consider vaccination options available to enhance their immunity against these viruses.
The varicella zoster virus, responsible for chickenpox, can become dormant in the body and later reactivate as shingles. This condition is characterized by a painful rash that often appears as a patch or stripe of tiny blisters on one side of the body or face. Early symptoms may begin with skin tingling, itching, or pain roughly one week before any blisters develop. Shingles may also induce fever, headache, or an upset stomach. Notably, when shingles affect the eye, it can lead to serious complications, including potential vision loss.
Statistics indicate that about one-third of Americans will experience shingles at some point in their lives. The risk of developing this illness significantly increases for older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems. Preventive measures, such as effectively managing blood pressure, may help in reducing the risk of shingles. Importantly, individuals with shingles can minimize the transmission risk to others by ensuring the rash is properly covered.
Complications from shingles can result in long-term nerve pain termed postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), which is reported in 10% to 20% of patients who develop shingles. The risk of PHN increases with age, and its effects can persist for several months or even years. To combat this, the CDC strongly recommends that all adults aged 50 and older receive the Shingrix vaccine, which boasts a remarkable effectiveness rate of over 90%. Shingrix is given in two doses, spaced two to six months apart. Additionally, those who have had shingles previously or received the older vaccine, Zostavax, are also advised to get Shingrix for better protection.
Individuals who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or suffering from certain severe health conditions should consult with their healthcare provider before receiving the vaccine. Primary care providers are well-equipped to evaluate personal health conditions relative to the Shingrix vaccination. Although concerns about temporary side effects may deter some from getting vaccinated, these should not overshadow the significant benefits of vaccination.
In Beaufort County, the situation is evolving concerning COVID-19 vaccinations. Local independent pharmacies have reported they have not yet received doses of the vaccine for public distribution. Conversely, chain pharmacies have received vaccines primarily to serve long-term care facilities. Local pharmacists express a strong desire to administer vaccines in the community, drawing from their experiences in managing previous outbreaks. They have the capability to handle large volumes of patients and to organize vaccination clinics.
With the public increasingly willing to receive vaccinations as the pandemic evolves, the Beaufort County Health Department is confronting challenges due to limited vaccine supply and is actively awaiting additional doses. Health officials stress the importance of vaccination not only for individual protection but also to safeguard the community at large against these viral infections.
FAQs
What is Shingles and what causes it?
Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the varicella zoster virus, which is the same virus responsible for chickenpox. It often results in a painful rash.
How can I prevent Shingles?
The CDC recommends Shingrix, a vaccine for adults aged 50 and older. Maintaining overall health and managing conditions like blood pressure may also reduce risk.
Is the Shingrix vaccine effective?
Yes, Shingrix has over a 90% effectiveness rate in preventing shingles and its complications.
What should I do if I have shingles?
It is important to contact a healthcare provider for assessment and potential treatment options.
Key Features of Vaccine Strategies
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Shingles Prevention | Vaccination with Shingrix recommended for adults 50 and older. |
| COVID-19 Vaccination Supply | Limited availability in Beaufort County; independent pharmacies awaiting doses. |
| Public Willingness | Community members showing increased willingness to receive vaccinations. |
| Long-term Effects | Postherpetic neuralgia can affect 10% to 20% of shingles patients, especially the elderly. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Your Island News: Chickenpox for Adults
- Wikipedia: Shingles
- WITN: Independent Pharmacies and Vaccine Rollout
- Google Search: Shingrix
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Chickenpox
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
