Chickenpox leaves behind the varicella zoster virus. If the virus is reactivated, it causes a painful condition known as shingles. In addition to a rash with blisters, some people develop ongoing severe nerve pain that can last for months or years. The risk and severity of the illness and prolonged nerve pain increase with age. The shingles vaccine can reduce the risk of illness and nerve pain. The vaccine is not included in the National Vaccination Programme. The vaccine can be purchased by prescription from pharmacies and medical centres.

• Lääkeinfo.fi: Shingrix (in Finnish)
  • For adults
  • Available from pharmacies by prescription
• Duodecim medical reference book: Shingles (in Finnish)