What age group is primarily at risk for developing herpes zoster?

Individuals aged 50 years and older are primarily at risk for developing herpes zoster, also known as shingles. The rationale behind this increased risk is closely tied to the natural aging process, which often results in a decline in the immune response. As people age, the varicella-zoster virus, which causes both chickenpox in children and shingles in adults, can reactivate after remaining dormant in the sensory nerve ganglia.

Research indicates that being 50 and older presents a significantly higher likelihood of experiencing herpes zoster, with incidence rates increasing notably after this age threshold. This is why vaccination recommendations, such as the Shingrix vaccine, emphasize immunization for individuals in this age group to help prevent the reactivation of the virus.

Considering the other age groups, while individuals under 30, aged 30-39, and aged 40-49 can contract herpes zoster, their incidence rates are lower compared to those aged 50 and above. This makes the older age group the primary focus for prevention and awareness regarding herpes zoster.