Turns out that a study found that the reactivation of VZV is associated with the use of certain drugs, such as methotrexate and certain biologic medications [2]. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

Reactivation of VZV usually occurs as a result of weakening of the immune system due to aging or a damaged immune system. Children may also develop shingles, however the risk of getting shingles increases when as you get older, usually at the age of 60 or older[1].

 

The development of technology in the modern era has contributed to our understanding of various diseases mechanisms and drug development methods. In addition, post clinical epidemiological research highly contributes to our understanding of whether a current treatment is efficient and to what extent.

Turns out that a study found that the reactivation of VZV is associated with the use of certain drugs, such as methotrexate and certain biologic medications [2].

This study results suggest the need for a vaccination against VZV in patients with psoriasis and various risk factors for shingles. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

 

I bet your next question might be, “What is Methotrexate?” Well, good question! Methotrexate is a medication used to treat certain types of cancer such as breast, skin, head and neck, or lung, as well as severe psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis [3]. According to Medline Plus, Methotrexate may decrease the activity of the immune system, and as a result develop serious infections [4]. Which actually may be the reason to the reactivation of VZV I mentioned, though the actual reason for reactivation was not discussed in the study.

In actual fact, Psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis are a chronic inflammatory disorders of the immune system [5-6], in which the body actually attacks itself. This causes a problem: on the one hand, there is a need to regulate and control the immune system, and on the other hand, if the immune system is too down regulated, the body won’t be able to fight latent infections. Therefore, this study results suggest the need for a vaccination against VZV in patients with psoriasis and various risk factors for shingles.
References
1. CDC.gov – “Shingles (Herpes Zoster)” – Prevention & Treatment. Last Reviewed on May 1, 2014.
http://www.cdc.gov/shingles/about/prevention-treatment.html
2. Family Practice News – Methotrexate and biologics linked to higher zoster risk in psoriasis. Published on March 22, 2015.
3. Drugs.com – Methotrexate. Last revised on January 6, 2015.
http://www.drugs.com/methotrexate.html
4. Medline Plus – Methotrexate. Last revised May 15, 2014.
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a682019.html
5. Psoriasisconnect.com – Psoriasis and your immune system.
http://www.psoriasisconnect.com/learn/psoriasis-and-immune-sys.jsp
6. Shah, Ankur. Harrison’s Principle of Internal Medicine (18th ed.). United States: McGraw Hill. p. 2738.

Turns out that flavonoids are able to fight the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), as well as reduce growths of abnormal cells in the cervix caused by the virus [2-3]. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

But before we answer that question, what is actually green tea?
Green tea is made from the leaves of the plant Camellia Sinensis, and may be consumed as a beverage, or as an extract to serve as medicine.

Even back then, chinese people identified it’s health benefits. Turns out that tea leaves contain two unique active compounds named methylxanthines and flavonoids.

Methylxanthines include caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline, which are a group of substances that are present in small quantities. The caffeine affects thinking and alertness, and is thought to stimulate the nervous system, heart and muscles by increasing the release of chemicals in the brain.

Flavonoids are responsible for most of its beneficial effects such as assisting in prevention of inflammation and cancer, lessen joint degeneration and help prevent cardiovascular diseases.

Even more strikingly, turns out that flavonoids are able to fight the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), as well as reduce growths of abnormal cells in the cervix caused by the virus [2-3].

And it doesn’t end there. Green tea extract is the first botanical agent approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for prescription use and is indicated as a treatment for external genital and perianal warts [3].

There are other natural antiviral remedies that contain Camellia Sinesis Extract (green tea extract), such as Novirin, a natural antiviral dietary supplement.

In a matter of fact, there are other natural antiviral remedies that contain Camellia Sinesis Extract (green tea extract), such as Novirin, a natural antiviral dietary supplement. Its formula contains five natural ingredients: Selenium, Camellia Sinesis Extract, Quercetin, Cinnamomum Extract, and Licorice Extract. The first ingredient is a trace element, and the other four are plant extracts. Each ingredient and its dose were chosen through a scientific approach.

Additionally, this formula was found to reduce HPV symptoms in two separate post-marketing clinical studies that followed FDA guidelines [4]. So it really works. And apparently it is effective against other viruses as well such as herpes virus, shingles virus, Cytomegallovirus and more.

Well, I myself love my cup of coffee every morning, but I sure am going to try having a cup of green tea instead every second day.

References:
1. Dattner, Christine; Boussabba, Sophie (2003), Emmanuelle Javelle, ed., The Book of Green Tea, Universe Books, p. 13,
2. Doan HQ1, Nguyen HP, Rady P, Tyring SK. “Expression Patterns of Immune-Associated Genes in External Genital and Perianal Warts Treated with Sinecatechins.” Viral Immunol. 2015 Mar 16.
3. Tyring SK “Effect of Sinecatechins on HPV-Activated Cell Growth and Induction of Apoptosis.” J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2012 Feb;5(2):34-41.
4. Polansky, H. Itzkovitz, E. Gene-Eden-VIR Is Antiviral: Results of a Post Marketing Clinical Study. Published in September 2013.

Few research suggests that the herpes virus, may cause fertility problems in men. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

Nowadays, many couples have difficulties conceiving. It may involve both partners, and may be attributable to various reasons. Few of the main causes of male infertility includes abnormal sperm production or function, problems with the delivery of sperm, overexposure to certain chemicals and toxins and damage related to cancer and its treatment, whereas causes of female infertility include ovulation disorders, uterine or cervical abnormalities, thyroid problems, cancer and its treatment and more [1].

Well, apparently those aren’t the only reasons for infertility.

Few research suggests that the herpes virus, especially (HSV-2), which normally causes genital herpes, may cause fertility problems in men.

These studies stated that infertility may be caused either by directly invading the male genital tract cells, or by indirectly causing local inflammatory or immunological response that could worsen reproductive functions [2-3].

The bottom line is that HSV may make it harder for a couple to conceive.

So here is some advice for women with herpes: try to conceive during your ovulating period and only when you aren’t having an outbreak, that is, when symptoms are not evident. And anyway, if you and your partner are witnessing difficulties to conceive, it is important you consult your doctor.
References:
1. http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/infertility/basics/causes/con-20034770
2. Seyed Hamidreza Monavari,a, Mostafa Salehi Vaziri,b Mohammadali Khalili,c Mahmoud Shamsi-Shahrabadi,b Hossein Keyvani,b Hamidreza Mollaei,b and Mehdi Fazlalipourb “Asymptomatic seminal infection of herpes simplex virus: impact on male infertility.” The Journal of Biomedical Research. Published Online in 2012.
3. el Borai N1, Inoue M, Lefèvre C, Naumova EN, Sato B, Yamamura M. “Detection of herpes simplex DNA in semen and menstrual blood of individuals attending an infertility clinic.” Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research. Published in February 1997.

The cocoa present in dark chocolate boosts the immune system!

There’s nothing like a nice big slab of chocolate! When you feel blue, before an exam, or even when you’re just craving for something sweet. However, chocolate is usually associated with unhealthy eating, which is mainly due to its high sugar and cream levels. But them, what is I told you, that chocolate is actually very very healthy?? Turns out that quality dark chocolate has remarkable health benefits [1]!

Dark chocolate is one of the most strongest antioxidants in the world. Cacao, from which chocolate is made, contains 15-20 times more antioxidants than blueberries and green tea! Pretty crazy huh?

And it doesn’t end there. It also contains stimulant substances such as caffeine and theobromine, which can improve brain function in the short term. Therefore it is recommended to eat three squares of chocolate before writing and exam- it will keep you concentrated for a least another hour and a half!

Other than being rich in fiber, Iron and Magnesium, it contains flavonols (plant compound) which improves blood flow to the brain thus improving cognitive function and memory.

Even more strikingly, according to a study, the cocoa present in dark chocolate boosts the immune system by influencing the body’s inflammatory response.

In addition to dark chocolate, you may also take Novirin and Gene-Eden-VIR to boost your immune system. They are natural antiviral supplements, backed by clinical studies that showed their effectiveness against a broad range of latent viruses. For more information click www.Novirin.com

Many studies have demonstrated cocoa’s ability to reduce the concentration of molecules in the body that are involved in inflammatory response [2-3].

So in a matter of fact, by having 3 squares of dark chocolate a day, you may help your immune system to fight viruses, especially those latent viruses that manage to hide away from your immune system!

In addition to dark chocolate, you may also take Novirin and Gene-Eden-VIR to boost your immune system. They are natural antiviral supplements, backed by clinical studies that showed their effectiveness against a broad range of latent viruses. Such viruses includes Herpes, HPV, Hepatitis, CMV (Cytomegallovirus) shingles virus and EBV (Epstein Barr virus) [4].

But wait, that fact that dark chocolate is so healthy doesn’t mean you should reach for the Reese’s and M&M. Milk chocolate contains high levels of sugar and cream, and low levels of cacao. So milk chocolate isn’t as healthy as dark chocolate. So remember, When buying dark chocolate, make sure the chocolate you buy is with at least 70% cocoa.

References
1. Forbes.com – Cohen, J. “12 Best Foods To Boost Brain Power.” Published February 5, 2015.
2. Francisco J. Pérez-Cano, Malen Massot-Cladera, Àngels Franch, Cristina Castellote, and Margarida Castell. “The effects of cocoa on the immune system.” Front Pharmacol. 2013; 4: 71.
3. Borreli, L. “Benefits of Chocolate: The Common Cold And 4 Illnesses That Can Be Treated By Chocolate Consumption.” Published August 8, 2013.
4. Polansky, H. Itzkovitz, E. Gene-Eden-VIR Is Antiviral: Results of a Post Marketing Clinical Study. Published in September 2013.

It’s not easy to talk to your partner about being tested for STD’s, mainly because he or she might think of it as offensive. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

Meeting a new partner can be very exciting. Usually, a new relationship begins when you least expect it. And when you come to think of it, Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD’s) also come when you least expect it!
It’s not easy to talk to your partner about being tested for STD‘s, mainly because he or she might think of it as offensive. However, it is very much important! Chances are your partner will be very happy to hear how responsible you are about your sexual health.

The importance of having the “talk” before having sex is crucial!

Even if you’re planning to use a condom, infection isn’t necessarily prevented. Various STD‘s such as herpes and HPV can be transmitted even without showing any symptoms, and even when using a condom.
But then, how does one bring up such an embarrassing subject?? Here are few ideas for conversation starters.

“Getting tested will help us know for sure! So why take a chance?? It’s only a few days!”

“I’m not saying you are infected with a STD, I just think that getting tested will help protect the both of us.”

”Most STDs, including HIV, are treatable and many are curable. The sooner we know, the sooner we can start treatment.”

Notifying your doctor the number of sex partners you’ve had, as well as type of protection you used, is very important so he can evaluate your sexual history. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

“Even if the test will show positive for one of us, it doesn’t mean we have to end our relationship! There are various ways to prevent transmission.”

“We’ll be able to enjoy the sex more, if we know it is safe!”

“Did you know, that some people who are infected with a STD don’t even know it, since they may not be showing any symptoms!”

“Getting tested for STD’s isn’t painful at all! The test includes a urine sample, and in some cases a blood sample, and the results arrive very quickly!”

“How about getting tested together??”

After both of you agree to get tested, each of you must notify your doctor about the number of sex partners you’ve had, and type of protection you used. In addition, tell him if you’ve ever used drugs with needles or ever had sex without a condom. This information will help the doctor evaluate your sexual history and determine the risk factors.

If as a result to such a conversation, you partner will end the relationship, it means that it wasn’t meant to be! Remember, your health is the most important! Relationships come and go, however, you are with yourself until the end of your life.

So, do you have any ideas for conversation starters I might have missed?

An infection with VZV during the first 28 weeks of the pregnancy increases the risk of damage to the eyes, legs, arms, brain, bladder or bowel in 1%-2% of the babies [1]. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

While some viruses won’t cause any harm to a child or adult, others may cause severe health and developmental problems in a fetus or newborn baby with a compromised immune system.

I’d like to focus on the Varicella zoster virus (VZV). Wait, perhaps you’re more familiar with the chickenpox virus? Well, in actual fact, it is exactly the same virus. This virus causes both shingles and chickenpox. This first phase of this virus is chickenpox, whereas the second phase is always shingles. In between the two phases the virus establishes a lifelong latent infection.

So in a matter of fact, when the immune system is weakened, for instance in case of chemotherapy, AIDS, in neonates or during a post transplant treatment, the VZV virus can reactivate and awaken from a latent state, causing the disease known as shingles as well as other, serious complications [3].

An infection with VZV during the first 28 weeks of the pregnancy increases the risk of damage to the eyes, legs, arms, brain, bladder or bowel in 1%-2% of the babies [1].

Therefore, it is very important that women who aren’t sure that they have had chickenpox must avoid anyone with the infection. It is important to note that pregnant women who have already had chickenpox do not need to avoid contact, because they have already been immunized against the virus [2].

I bet your next question might be, can I catch shingles or chickenpox from a person who has shingles? Well, you can catch chickenpox from being exposed to a person with shingles if you have not had chickenpox yourself. However, you cannot catch shingles from a person with chickenpox, or catch shingles from a person with shingles. As I noted above, Shingles is a later phase of the chickenpox.

Adults and teenagers over the age of 14 are more likely than children to have complications resulting from chickenpox, therefore, they should take the medication. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

In some cases, women may be unsure whether they have been infected with the virus in the past or not. So then, how should they know whether to be careful or not? Well, they can ask their GP for a blood test that check immunity to the virus.

But hold on, what about treatment for chickenpox?

Turns out there is an effective vaccine that is administered during childhood in certain countries such as USA, Canada and Australia [3].

In addition to the vaccine there are antiviral pills such as aciclovir that can reduce the severity of chickenpox, However, theses pills don’t eliminate the virus from the body but stop the virus from replicating.

Adults and teenagers over the age of 14 are more likely than children to have complications resulting from chickenpox, therefore, they should take the medication. However, they should take it only if they start within 24 hours of the rash first developing. If medication is first administered after this time it is not likely to have much of an effect [3]. Additionally, there is natural treatment. The oral antiviral product Novirin has a formula that was shown to be effective in reducing viral symptoms in two post-marketing clinical studies that followed FDA guidelines [4].

So, if you’re pregnant, or planning, you must show responsibility by being aware of the various viral infections that can harm you and your baby.

References:
1. Russell, R. “New guidelines on chickenpox and pregnancy” – WebMD.com. Published January 21, 2015.
2. The Herald – “CHICKENPOX ALERT FOR PREGNANT WOMEN.” – Published January 21, 2015
3. Patient.co.uk – “Chickenpox in Adults and Teenagers.” Last Checked August 21, 2014.
4. Polansky, H. Itzkovitz, E. Gene-Eden-VIR Is Antiviral: Results of a Post Marketing Clinical Study. Published in September 2013.

Turns out that a research team investigated whether inhibitors of a specific viral protein would stop and delay the replication of HSV-1 and HSV-2. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

Treating viruses isn’t an easy task. They take over the cell, use its activities in their favor, and therefore are considered parasites [1].

An important question we should discuss is, why don’t doctors prescribe antibiotics for viral infections? Well, the answer lies within the bacteria’s structure.

Unlike viruses, bacteria are very similar to each other and different from us humans. This is reflected, for example, in very conserved protein elements different from ours found on their outer surface [2].

Antibiotics target those specific conserved elements which are significant for bacteria activity, thus eliminating the bacteria from the body. This fact becomes a problem when antibiotics eliminate good bacteria from the body as well [3].

Viruses, are actually parasites, and unlike bacteria, their elements aren’t conserved between one another and strikingly, in some cases, they mimic elements we have in our cells. This fact makes it difficult for our immune system to recognize viruses as a foreign element [1].

Therefore, treating viruses requires high creativity and very deep thought from doctors, researchers and pharmaceutical companies.

Over the years, the scientific community finally realized that understanding the molecular process of viral infection is important and will aid in the development of antiviral drugs.
For instance, acyclovir takes advantage of a specific viral molecular pathway and thus prevents further viral replication without affecting the normal cellular processes.

Research team hopes that herpes virus changes very slowly. That gives them a better chance at investigating something that can work for a long time without allowing the virus to mutate as rapidly as currently approved treatments do [4-5]. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

Turns out that a research team investigated whether inhibitors of a specific viral protein would stop and delay the replication of HSV-1 and HSV-2. Strikingly, the inhibitors stopped accumulation of viral genomes and infectious particles and blocked the viral replication cycle [4]. Do I smell new herpes treatment???

These results are very encouraging since they enable an additional pathway to fight the virus. And it doesn’t end there, after scientists discover the mechanism by which this drug inhibits the spread of the virus, it can be used along with other antivirals as a cocktail, similar to HIV treatment, therefore preventing resistance.

Turns out that one of the tested inhibitors has already proven effective in animals and another is found in a topical anti fungal already FDA approved for use! [5]

Research team hopes that herpes virus changes very slowly. That gives them a better chance at investigating something that can work for a long time without allowing the virus to mutate as rapidly as currently approved treatments do [4-5].
References:
1. Koonin EV, Senkevich TG, Dolja VV. The ancient Virus World and evolution of cells. Biol. Direct. 2006;1:29.
2. Woese CR, Fox GE (1977). “Phylogenetic structure of the prokaryotic domain: the primary kingdoms”. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America 74 (11): 5088–90.
3. Goodman, Louis, & Gilman, Alfred (1941). The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics (1st ed.) New York: The Macmillan Company.
4. J. E. Tavis, H. Wang, A. E. Tollefson, B. Ying, M. Korom, X. Cheng, F. Cao, K. L. Davis, W. S. M. Wold, L. A. Morrison. Inhibitors of Nucleotidyltransferase Superfamily Enzymes Suppress Herpes Simplex Virus Replication.Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, 2014; 58 (12): 7451
5. Saint Louis University. “Enzyme inhibitors suppress herpes simplex virus replication, study finds.” ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 18 December 2014. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/12/141218131937.htm>.

According to a new study, reactivation of the herpes virus (HSV-1 and HSV-2) is known to cause several different types of brain and brain’s fluid inflammations, such as meningitis (inflammation of the layers lining the brain) and encephalitis (inflammation of the brain itself, which is much more serious). Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

Many studies are conducted on the Herpes virus on an every day basis, and as a result, new facts are discovered. But before we begin, what is the herpes virus infection all about??
Herpes virus 1 and 2, are viruses that infect humans [2]. Herpes-1 is that virus which causes those annoying cold sores and watery blisters on the skin, mainly near the mouth, whereas herpes-2 is that virus which causes genital sores and blisters- both of which can be a total bummer [2,3].

So, first thing’s first- lets say you caught herpes: what’s next? Besides the initial symptoms, the virus knows how to travel to your nerve cells, and transfer to a latent state, which is basically similer to falling asleep in your nerves. And, not only it goes to sleep, but it can hide from your immune system!

And finally, beware- if you are by any chance stressed prior to an exam or decided to go sunbathing or tanning at the beach, you may wake that darn devil up, and as a result he will travel back to your skin and you will get more cold sores on your mouth or blisters on your genitals, depends on which type of virus you have [2].

What’s interesting about herpes viruses is that many people are infected with HSV without even knowing. Moreover, infected people can transmit the virus without having symptoms, and as a result spread the infection to people unknowingly.
Many people who are in a relationship for many years, and have never experienced herpes outbreak’s, may link a partners sudden herpes outbreak to cheating.

However, the timing of transmission is usually unknown, so genital herpes infection may appear even after many years in a monogamous relationship.

However, the timing of transmission is usually unknown, so genital herpes infection may appear even after many years in a monogamous relationship.

Many people who are in a relationship for many years, and have never experienced herpes outbreak’s, may link a partners sudden herpes outbreak to cheating. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

According to a new study, reactivation of the herpes virus (HSV-1 and HSV-2) is known to cause several different types of brain and brain’s fluid inflammations, such as meningitis (inflammation of the layers lining the brain) and encephalitis (inflammation of the brain itself, which is much more serious).

And it doesn’t end there. According to a new study, reactivation of the herpes virus (HSV-1 and HSV-2) is known to cause several different types of brain and brain’s fluid inflammations, such as meningitis (inflammation of the layers lining the brain) and encephalitis (inflammation of the brain itself, which is much more serious). To be more specific, HSV encephalitis is mainly caused by HSV-1, whereas meningitis is more often caused by HSV-2. And as a result, powerful seizures may occur [3-4].
The amount of health problem caused by herpes virus infection amazes me each time. To me, knowledge is power. Therefore, read, learn, and don’t leave your health in another persons hands. Take responsibility for your health.

 
References:
1. Pebody, R. G., et al. “The seroepidemiology of herpes simplex virus type 1 and 2 in Europe.”Sexually transmitted infections 80.3 (2004): 185-191.
2. 2. Nahmias, André J., and William E. Josey. “Herpes simplex viruses 1 and 2.” Viral infections of humans. Springer US, 1984. 351-372.‏
3. Neil W. Andersona, William Sistrunkb and Matthew J. Binnickera “Simultaneous Detection of Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2 in the Cerebrospinal Fluid of a Patient with Seizures and Encephalitis.” Journal of Clinical Microbiology. Published in January 2015.
4. Meningitis.org – Viral Meningitis

So, a few smart scientists came up with the idea of creating a vaginal ring, which is used to prevent herpes infection, and is also used as a means of birth control. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

Wouldn’t it be amazing if it were possible to prevent sexually transmitted diseases? Imagine not needing to do the “talk” before getting involved in a sexual relationship.
So far, avoiding sexually transmitted disease is mainly by using a condom. Moreover, asking your partner to conduct and STD test before sexual encounter, is very much important too!

Preventing herpes isn’t an easy task due to the fact that sometimes, an infected person may be shedding the virus even without having outbreaks.

Preventing herpes isn’t an easy task due to the fact that sometimes, an infected person may be shedding the virus even without having outbreaks.

Aside from preventing STD’s, it is not always the right time to fall pregnant, and as a result, women prefer to use contraceptives. There are different ways to prevent pregnancy for example, birth control pills, diaphragm, condoms, spermicide and vaginal ring use.

So, a few smart scientists came up with the idea of creating a vaginal ring, which is used to prevent herpes infection, and is also used as a means of birth control.

So, a few smart scientists came up with the idea of creating a vaginal ring, which is used to prevent herpes infection, and is also used as a means of birth control.

This new multipurpose ring contain a combination substances known as MZC. Previous research found that an MZC gel lowered the risk of catching herpes simplex type 2 (HSV-2) [1].
The experiment was conducted on monkeys. In the study, the MZC plus hormonal contraceptive levonorgestrel rings reduced the likelihood of becoming infected with HSV-2 by about 30 percent. As for the monkeys that did acquire genital herpes, the ring lowered the rate of viral shedding (i.e, the rate at which the virus may pass on to a different monkey) [1].

However, this is not the first multipurpose vaginal ring to be researched for use against the herpes virus. Collaborative research from the University of Utah and the reproductive health research organization CONRAD showed that a vaginal ring using the topical microbicide tenofovir could help prevent HSV-2 transmission for up to 90 days [3].

Until this vaginal ring is FDA approved, we must continue acting responsible as much as possible in order to prevent the spread of viruses. Image by: freedigitalphotos.net

The following research results shows promise in development of multipurpose vaginal rings.

However, it is important to remember that the former new multipurpose ring has not been tested on humans, and developing an effective product with FDA approved drugs takes time.
Until this vaginal ring is FDA approved, we must continue acting responsible as much as possible in order to prevent the spread of viruses.

References:
1. Aidsmeds.com – “Vaginal Ring May Protect Against HIV, Herpes, HPV and Pregnancy.” Published on November 13, 2014.
2. healthline.com – Haskins, J. “First Intravaginal Ring to Protect Against Pregnancy, HIV, and Herpes.” Published on November 12, 2013.

Shingles Virus May Cause Deafness. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

Did you know??? According to the CDC, “almost 1 out of every 3 people in the United States will develop shingles, also known as zoster or herpes zoster, in their lifetime. There are an estimated 1 million cases of shingles each year in this country”[1].

But what is shingles you’re now asking??? Good question!!

The varicella zoster virus (VZV), which is a herpes virus, causes both chickenpox and shingles.

The varicella zoster virus (VZV), which is a herpes virus, causes both chickenpox and shingles.

After you’ve had chickenpox, the virus stays inactive in the body. For reasons that are not fully known, the virus can reactivate years later, causing shingles [1]. Even children can get shingles. However, the risk of shingles increases as you get older [1].

A worrying fact regrading shingles is that Infected individuals may infect others without knowing it.

And it doesn’t end there, the virus may reactivate in the throat [3], potentially causing serious conditions in addition to the painful symptoms of shingles, such as facial paralysis.

Moreover, studies show that VZV infections affecting the facial nerve near one of the ears can lead to deafness. The latter is also known as Herpes Zoster Otica, and it may eventually cause hearing loss [4].

Moreover, studies show that VZV infections affecting the facial nerve near one of the ears can lead to deafness. The latter is also known as Herpes Zoster Otica, and it may eventually cause hearing loss [4].

While shingles isn’t a life-threatening condition, it can be very painful. Vaccines can help reduce the risk of shingles outbreak, while early treatment can help shorten a shingles infection and lessen the chance of complications.
There are various treatments currently on the market. For instance, Zostavax is a vaccine that may reduce the risk of developing a shingles outbreak, and decrease the long-term pain due to damage in the nerve caused by the virus. Yet, in adults vaccinated at age 60 years or older, protection from the vaccine decreases within the first 5 years after vaccination [1].

Latent viruses aren’t easy to investigate, however, it is very much important to recognize them as a main research goal. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

There are also antiviral drugs, such as Zovirax or Valtrex. However, these medications, when effective, only shorten the time of the shingles outbreak. They are ineffective against the latent VZV virus [1]. In terms of natural treatment, Gene-Eden-VIR and Novirin are designed to help the immune system target latent herpes viruses, including the VZV, and they have been clinically proven to be very much effective [2].

Medical research contains various challenges that scientists deal with on an everyday basis. Latent viruses aren’t easy to investigate, however, it is very much important to recognize them as a main research goal in order to prevent suffering from further patients.

References:
1. CDC.gov – “Shingles (Herpes Zoster)” – Prevention & Treatment. Last Reviewed on May 1, 2014.
2. Polansky, H. Itzkovitz, E. Gene-Eden-VIR Is Antiviral: Results of a Post Marketing Clinical Study. Published in September 2013.
3. Myron J. Levin “Varicella-zoster virus and virus DNA in the blood and oropharynx of people with latent or active varicella-zoster virus infections.” Journal of Clinical Virology. Published December 2014.
4. The Merck Manual “Herpes Zoster Oticus.” Last reviewed in October 2012. Merckmanuals.com