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Shingles Vaccine Linked to Lower Dementia Risk in Landmark Study
11 Nov
Summary
- Shingles vaccine reduces dementia risk by 27-33% over 3 years
- Multiple shingles episodes increase dementia risk by 7-9% over 3-9 years
- Newer vaccine Shingrix more effective than older Zostavax in preventing dementia
According to a groundbreaking study published in November 2025, the shingles vaccine can substantially lower the risk of developing dementia. Researchers reviewed the medical records of over 100 million Americans from 2007 to 2023 and found that those who received the shingles vaccine had a 27-33% lower chance of being diagnosed with dementia over the next three years.
The study also revealed that people who experienced multiple shingles outbreaks faced a 7-9% higher risk of dementia in the 3-9 years following their second episode. This suggests the varicella-zoster virus, which causes shingles, may play a role in neurodegeneration.
Interestingly, the newer Shingrix vaccine, which uses inactivated virus components, proved more effective than the older Zostavax vaccine made from a weakened live virus. Women over 50 who received Zostavax had a 35% lower dementia risk, while those who got two doses of Shingrix saw a 39% reduction in their chances of developing the condition.
Experts say these findings provide strong evidence that getting vaccinated against shingles could help protect brain health, especially for older adults. As one researcher noted, "You want to have five more years of playing with your grandchildren and five more years of driving really well. That's priceless."
