Summary of Herpes zoster: tire suas dúvidas e saiba como se prevenir

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In the YouTube video "Herpes zoster: clear up your doubts and learn how to prevent it," the speaker discusses the increasing number of cases of herpes zoster, or shingles, in Brazil. Caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox, symptoms include clustered blisters, intense pain, and a sensation of wind on the affected area. Treatment with antiviral medication is only effective within the first 72 hours of symptom appearance. Many people, including those with weakened immune systems due to medication or health conditions, are at risk for developing shingles and can receive the vaccine. In 2023, there were over 2600 hospitalizations of shingles in Brazil, a significant increase from the previous year, yet many people remain unaware of the disease. The virus lies dormant in the body after chickenpox or vaccination and can be reactivated when the immune system is weakened.

• 00:00:00 In this section of the YouTube video titled "Herpes zoster: clear up your doubts and learn how to prevent it," the infectious disease herpes zoster, also known as shingles, is discussed. The number of cases in Brazil has been increasing in recent years, causing concern among health authorities. The disease is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is also responsible for chickenpox. The symptoms include small, clustered blisters, intense pain, and a sensation of wind on the affected area, which can also trigger episodes of pain. The treatment, called antiviral medication, is only effective within the first 72 hours of the symptom's appearance. After this period, the treatment is not very effective, and people may continue to experience chronic pain for years or even the rest of their lives. The speaker shares his personal experience of having the disease, which he initially mistook for a heart problem due to the intense pain in his chest. In 2023, there were 2600 hospitalizations of shingles in Brazil, representing a 133.6% increase compared to the previous year. Despite being diagnosed more frequently in healthcare units, a large portion of the population is still unaware of the disease. The virus responsible for shingles lies dormant in the body after someone has had chickenpox or been vaccinated against it. It can be reactivated when the person's immune system is weakened, such as in those using immunosuppressive medication, hematological patients, or people living with HIV. These individuals can receive the vaccine and those over 18 years old who have not had the disease before.