부산대학교 도서관

Herpes zoster (HZ) is a relatively common disease whose incidence increases with age and in immunocompromised situations. Mortality caused by HZ is low, but its complications impact on physical, psychological, functional, and social aspects of patients, significantly reducing health-related quality of life. Post-herpetic neuralgia is the most common complication, and is characterised by symptoms of neuropathic pain including allodynia and hyperalgesia with electrical, burning, and/or stabbing sensations that persist more than 90 days. Its management is complex and has limitations, which increases the demand for health resources and also increases direct and indirect costs. This article reviews the epidemiological and clinical features of HZ, the available treatments and vaccines against HZ, as well as national and international vaccination recommendations. In addition, the role of primary care is emphasised as a catalyst for the implementation of adult vaccination.