In which population is the shingles vaccine recommended?

The shingles vaccine is recommended for adults aged 50 and older due to the fact that this population is at a higher risk for developing shingles and its complications. Shingles, caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, can lead to painful rashes and other severe symptoms, including postherpetic neuralgia, which can significantly affect quality of life.

Clinical studies have shown that vaccination in this age group not only reduces the incidence of shingles but also decreases the severity and complications associated with the disease. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) endorses the administration of the shingles vaccine starting at age 50, recognizing the increased susceptibility as people age.

In contrast, the other age groups listed do not align with current recommendations for the shingles vaccine. For example, children and infants are not typically at risk for shingles in the same way older adults are, as the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus is most common in older populations. Therefore, the correct response highlights the target demographic for vaccine administration.