St. Charles County to Offer Shingles Vaccine

Cardinals manager Tony La Russa was diagnosed with shingles after showing the first signs of the infection nearly a month ago, an STLToday article on Wed, May 11 reported. The article pointed out that the infection, which is related to chickenpox, is more common in people over the age of 60, and that half of shingles sufferers  continue to feel pain even after the rash is gone, sometimes for years.

La Russa's situation has renewed interest in the shingles vaccine.

On June 1, 2011, the ’s Immunization Clinic will begin offering a shingles vaccine at its office at 1650 Boone’s Lick Road in St. Charles.

In a press release issued by the department, Director Hope Woodson said that shingles impacts the lives of nearly one-third of Americans. "We are happy to now have the ability to offer this vaccine to St. Charles County residents and others. Since this disease causes a painful rash that can last for weeks, months, and in some cases years, it is important for those who are eligible — this vaccine is FDA-approved for those 60 and older — to do everything they can to reduce the risk for contracting this disease.”

The vaccine and consultation with clinic nurses will cost $170, as it is not covered by Medicare or most insurance providers. Appointments may be scheduled by calling the county health department at (636) 949-1857.

Shingles is not contagious, the department said, but it tends to occur in people who have compromised immune systems or who are under stress. Among the symptoms of shingles are a painful, itchy rash that typically develops on one side of the body, fever, headache, chills, and an upset stomach. Rarely, complications such as prolonged pain, blindness and hearing problems can occur, and even pneumonia, brain inflammation or death.