Shingles vaccine available at County Health Department

Protect yourself from the shingles virus by getting the vaccine at the Putnam County Health Department.

Shingles, also called Herpes Zoster, is a painful skin rash, often accompanied by blisters, caused by the same virus as chicken pox. It usually lasts two to four weeks and appears on one side of the face or body.

Other symptoms include fever, headache, chills and upset stomach. Rarely, an infection can lead pneumonia, blindness, encephalitis, hearing problems or death.

The CDC recommends a single dose for adults 60 years of age and older.

Those interested may call for appointments at 658-2782.

The health department will process your insurance.