The ACIP to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) voted Wednesday, October 25, 2006, to recommend a newly licensed zoster vaccine, Zostavax manufactured by Merck, to protect against shingles be given to all people age 60 and older, including those who have had a previous episode of shingles.
“Vaccines aren’t just for kids anymore – and this vaccine represents an important medical breakthrough aimed at improving health in older people,� said Dr. Anne Schuchat, Assistant Surgeon General and director of CDC’s National Center for Immunizations and Respiratory Diseases. “These vaccine recommendations address a health problem for people age 60 and older. It has been tested and has been found to be safe and effective in providing protection against shingles and associated chronic pain.�
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