As the UAE ramps up preventive healthcare and longevity efforts, local doctors are urging residents—especially those over 50—to get the shingles vaccine as part of routine immunisation.
This advice follows new research presented at IDWeek 2025, which found that adults who received the shingles (herpes zoster) vaccine had a 50% lower risk of vascular dementia, a 27% lower risk of blood clots, a 25% lower risk of heart attack or stroke, and a 21% lower risk of death compared to those who received the pneumococcal vaccine.
Dr. Shahrzad Mojtabavi Naeini, GP Aesthetics at International Modern Hospital Dubai, explained that shingles is caused by reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus—the same virus that causes chickenpox. It leads to a painful rash, blisters, and nerve pain that can last for months. Complications can affect quality of life, sleep, and sometimes cause eye or nerve problems. Both men and women can develop shingles, but the risk increases after age 50 or with a weakened immune system.
In the UAE, cases are rising as the population ages. A 2022 study found that while 64% of adults over 50 had heard of shingles, only about 15% knew about the vaccine, and less than 4% had received it. The Ministry of Health (MoHAP) recommends the vaccine for adults over 50 and for immunocompromised patients.
Dr. Priyanka Porwal, a specialist in internal medicine at Aster Clinic, Sheikh Zayed Road, noted that public understanding of shingles remains low. A 2023 UAE study found that only 2% of participants had a good understanding of shingles, and less than 4% had received the vaccine.
She clarified that shingles itself is not directly contagious, but someone with active shingles can transmit the chickenpox virus to those who have never had chickenpox or the vaccine. Dr. Porwal called vaccines “our heroes” and stressed the importance of immunisation.
The shingles vaccine is now available in the UAE for adults aged 50 and above. It is given in two doses, about six months apart. Studies show the vaccine is over 90% effective in older adults, with protection lasting at least 10 years.
Research suggests that shingles vaccination may reduce the risk of cardiovascular events and dementia over the long term, likely by reducing viral reactivation and inflammation. Dr. Porwal recommends that adults aged 50 and above who have had chickenpox should seriously consider the vaccine. Adults under 50 with weakened immune systems should discuss vaccination with their doctor. Even those who have had shingles before should consider the vaccine, as prior infection does not guarantee lifelong protection.
Dr. Haram Abass Mohammed Abass, specialist dermatology at Burjeel Medical City, added that studies show older adults who received the shingles vaccine had a 17-20% lower risk of dementia and a 23% lower risk of cardiovascular events compared to those who did not. Protection remains high for at least 10 years after completing the two-dose series.
Doctors across the UAE agree: prevention through vaccination and awareness is the best strategy for protecting long-term health.