Shingles Vaccine in UAE Does More Than Prevent Rash, Can Slash Risk of Stroke and Dementia: Doctors

New research reveals the dual benefit of the jab, as UAE medics urge residents over 50 to bridge a significant knowledge gap and get immunized.

UAE doctors are issuing a strong recommendation for residents aged 50 and above to get the shingles vaccine, following groundbreaking research that links the immunization to a drastically reduced risk of life-threatening conditions like stroke, heart attack, and dementia.

The call to action is part of the UAE’s broader preventive healthcare strategy. It comes after a study presented at IDWeek 2025 found that the shingles vaccine offers significant protective benefits beyond its intended purpose.

According to the research, vaccinated adults had a:

• 50% lower risk of vascular dementia
• 25% lower risk of heart attack or stroke
• 21% lower risk of death

compared to those who received a different vaccine.

Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox. The condition manifests as a painful rash and can lead to long-term nerve pain.

Despite its severity and availability, awareness in the UAE remains low. A 2022 study found that while 64% of adults over 50 had heard of shingles, less than 4% had received the vaccine.

“The Ministry of Health (MoHAP) officially recommends vaccination for adults over 50 years and for immunocompromised patients,” said Dr. Shahrzad Mojtabavi Naeini, a GP at International Modern Hospital Dubai. She noted that cases are increasing as the UAE’s population ages.

Doctors emphasize that the vaccine is a powerful preventive tool. “Research indicates that shingles vaccination may reduce the risk of certain conditions such as cardiovascular events or dementia over the long term, likely by reducing viral reactivation and associated inflammation,” explained Dr. Priyanka Porwal, a specialist in internal medicine at Aster Clinic.

The vaccine is administered in two doses, roughly six months apart, and is available across the UAE. Medical professionals advise that even individuals who have had shingles before should consider vaccination, as prior infection does not guarantee lifelong immunity.