What is a contraindication for receiving the herpes zoster vaccine (HZV)?

A contraindication for receiving the herpes zoster vaccine (HZV) is a current treatment for lymphoma. This is because individuals who are undergoing treatment for lymphoma or have significant immunosuppression are at a higher risk of developing an adverse reaction to live vaccines, including HZV. The herpes zoster vaccine is a live attenuated virus, which means it contains a weakened form of the virus that can still replicate in the body. For patients with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing cancer treatment, the vaccine may pose a risk, as their bodies may not be able to handle the live virus adequately, leading to potential complications.

In contrast, a history of chickenpox does not prevent someone from receiving the vaccine since the vaccine is designed to help boost immunity against the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus that causes shingles (herpes zoster). Being older than 50 years is not a contraindication; rather, it is the target group for vaccination, as the risk of zoster and its complications increases with age. Receiving antibiotics is generally not a contraindication either; antibiotics do not interact with the vaccine's effectiveness or safety. Thus, current treatment for lymphoma is the correct selection for a contraindication to receiving the herpes zoster