Prevent Firepox, Doctor: It Can Start From Lifestyle To Vaccination

Illustration of the injection of vaccine (Unsplash)

JAKARTA - Vaccination and lifestyle play a role in preventing herpes zoster or smallpox. This was conveyed by dermatologist and venteology specialist who graduated from Sebelas Maret University (UNS) dr. Frieda, Sp.DVE.

Frieda said the heshrix vaccination proved to be very effective in preventing smallpox and neuralgia in patients who had been exposed to smallpox.

The heshrix vaccination, said Frieda, was the first vaccine for smallpox, recommended by an association of Indonesian internal medicine specialists (PAPDI) and an Indonesian skin and genitals specialist association (PERDOSKI).

The vaccine has gone through various clinical trials for more than 10 years in various countries with a large population of course. Frieda said that in carrying out the vaccination there was no need to wait for the smallpox first.

The heshrix vaccination can help prevent the reactivation of the varicella zoster virus and be effective in preventing long-term complications that can be permanent, such as neurological damage, post-Herpetic neuralgia, visual impairment, and reduced quality of life.

"Because of course, if the patient is known for almost 100 percent of fireworks, he complains that there is a quality of life disturbance because the pain he complains about every day. If you haven't been exposed to smallpox, you haven't imagined the pain," Frieda said as quoted by ANTARA.

Frieda added that several groups that are important or get vaccinated immediately, namely individuals who are already over 50 years old, are considered to be a high-risk population and usually have comorbidities such as diabetes or other disorders.

"For example, if it is not over 50 years old, it is permissible, especially the 18-49 year age group, but, it has a high risk such as comorbid, autoimmune or immune system disorders," he said.

In addition to vaccination, there are several methods that can be done in preventing smallpox, such as a healthy lifestyle with a healthy diet, exercise, adequate rest and also stress management.

Avoid close contact with people who are actively infected with chickenpox or smallpox. Wash your hands regularly with soap or running water, especially after contact with people infected with smallpox.

"For sufferers who are actively infected with smallpox, it is important to remember that they must close the rash area or avoid direct contact with people with high risk populations such as infants, pregnant women or people with low immune systems," said Frieda.