Can you get shingles if you already had chicken pox?

Q. I had chicken pox about 60 years ago, but my doc advises against the shingles vaccine. What do you think?—Nick Walker, Aiken, SC

A. Shingles and chicken pox are caused by the same virus, varicella-zoster. The original childhood infection doesn't just disappear; instead it migrates deep into the nervous system, remaining dormant for decades until something causes its reactivation. The most common trigger? Advancing age. Immunity to the virus wanes over time, which is why we recommend the zoster vaccine for people age 60 and older (except those who are taking immunosuppressive drugs or have medical conditions that make their immune system less effective). The vaccine cuts the risk of developing shingles in half, and it's covered by Medicare Part D plans.

For related information check our list of vaccines that boost your immunity.

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