The nurse is seeing a client in the clinic who has shingles (herpes zoster). The client is concerned about spreading the disease to others. How should the nurse respond?

  • It is only possible to have one episode of the disease.
  • Persons with leukemia are at higher risk.
  • Persons of all ages should receive the zoster vaccine (Zostavax).
  • Persons between 30 and 40 years old are at high risk.
Number 2 is correct.
Persons with suppressed or compromised immune systems, such as occurs with leukemia, are at higher risk to acquire shingles. Although rare, a second and even third episode of shingles can occur. A zoster vaccine is recommended for persons 60 years and older, the timeline for highest risk of acquiring herpes zoster.