Shingles - Questions & Answers
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From: Mima Sanchez-Parsons

Q : I have eye herpes and want to konow if the shingles vaccine could cure it.

Answer : Hello Mima. This is a difficult question to answer. Typically,vaccines are given to prevent the disease from occuring. However there is some preliminary data which suggests that a vaccine can minimise the damage caused by the disease. Eye herpes can in some cases affect vision and lead to blindness. Some researchers have discussed the possibility of giveing a vaccine to prevent repeated flare-ups or minimise serious side effects. Another possible treatment is using the anti viral drug acyclovir, which is used for treating shingles. Although the drug is most effective when started very early in shingles, researchers have found that acyclovir can prevent the recurrence of the herpes eye disease. Long tern use of the medicine can prevent serious side effects of the eye herpes. Your doctor is the best person to guide you and it is best to consult a good opthalmologist in this regard. 

Source :  http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/1998/07/980730052014.htm

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