Shingles has long been associated with nerve pain known as postherpetic neuralgia. However, research is now revealing the devastating impact it can have on brain health. A recent study found that shingles vaccination may be capable of protecting the aging body and brain from dementia. The study also suggests that avoiding shingles in childhood through vaccination could reduce rates of certain dementias in decades to come.
Shingles virus reactivation has been linked to cognitive decline, vascular dementia, and even stroke. According to researchers, this is due to its ability to damage DNA and mitochondria within the brain’s neurons, accelerating biological aging. The study also found that varicella-zoster can trigger other herpes viruses, such as HSV-1, potentially bombarding the brain with two viruses at once.
While more research is needed, experts believe that shingles vaccination may be a key to reducing rates of neurological decline and dementia. Antioxidant supplements like resveratrol and epigallocatechin gallate may also help mitigate damage caused by varicella reactivation and other herpes viruses. The study’s findings have sparked hope for an early life shingles vaccine, potentially offering protection against accelerated brain aging and dementia.
Researchers are now exploring the potential role of rapid saliva tests to detect varicella-zoster reactivation. If successful, these tests could enable individuals to take action during times of high stress or when they first experience symptoms, reducing the risk of severe cognitive decline and dementia. With the global population set to double by 2050, addressing this issue is crucial for ensuring healthy aging.
Source: https://www.wired.com/story/shingles-virus-aging