JAKARTA - The prevention of smallpox, or herpes zoster, is becoming increasingly important, especially for the elderly and individual with immune disorders.
Preventive efforts such as vaccination and the application of a healthy lifestyle are considered very effective in reducing the risk of infection and complications from this disease.
A specialist in skin and genitals from Sebelas Maret University (UNS), dr. Frieda, Sp.DVE, stated that the heshrix vaccination is a preventive measure that has proven effective againstction of zoster and accompanying nervous pain. This he conveyed in a health discussion held online from Jakarta on Tuesday.
According to dr. Frieda, the hingrix vaccine has been recommended by a number of leading medical organizations in Indonesia, including the Association of Indonesian Internal Medicine Specialists (PAPDI) and the Association of Indonesian Skin and Gender Specialists (PERDOSKI). This vaccine has been through clinical testing for more than a decade in various countries with convincing results.
He emphasized that vaccination does not have to wait until a person is infected first. This vaccine works by preventing the reactivation of the virus variantella zoster virus that causes chickenpox which can be reactivated as shotout zoster or smallpox.
Long-term complications such as permanent nerve pain, visual impairments, and decreased quality of life can be prevented if vaccination is carried out early on, explained dr. Frieda was quoted as saying by ANTARA.
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He also added that most of the patients who had been exposed to smallpox experienced prolonged pain that interfered with their daily activities.
Dr. Frieda also highlighted the importance of vaccination for individuals over 50 years of age, as this group is included in the category of high risk. In addition, people aged between 18 and 49 years with certain medical conditions such as autoimmune, diabetes, or immune system disorders are also recommended to get the vaccine.
In addition to vaccination, he reminded the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle as part of prevention. A balanced lifestyle that includes good nutritional intake, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management contributes to strengthening body resistance to infection.
Another preventive measure is to avoid physical contact with individuals who are experiencing active infection, both chickenpox and smallpox. Washing hands regularly with soap and running water is also important, especially after contact with the infected person.
"For people with active smallpox, it is highly recommended to cover the rash area and avoid direct contact with vulnerable groups such as babies, pregnant women, and people with weak immune system," he concluded.
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