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The Shingles Vaccine Reduces Dementia

Healthcare
United States
Started June 19, 2026

In 2013 in Can the Shingles Vaccine Prevent Dementia? I wrote: A new paper provides good evidence that the shingles vaccine can prevent dementia, which strongly suggests that some forms of dementia are caused by the varicella zoster virus (VZV), the virus that on initial infection causes chickenpox. We now have three studies–from America, Australia and […] The post The Shingles Vaccine Reduces Dementia appeared first on Marginal REVOLUTION. Related StoriesMontana’s SB535 and a Potential Biote...

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CLAIM Posted by will • Jun 19, 2026
While the shingles vaccine shows promise, we should not overstate its benefits without more conclusive evidence linking it directly to dementia prevention.
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CLAIM Posted by will • Jun 19, 2026
The shingles vaccine should be universally recommended for older adults to potentially reduce dementia risk, based on emerging evidence linking VZV to cognitive decline.
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CLAIM Posted by will • Jun 19, 2026
Promoting the shingles vaccine as a dementia prevention tool could lead to complacency about other critical factors that contribute to cognitive health.
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CLAIM Posted by will • Jun 19, 2026
Investing in research on the connection between varicella zoster virus and dementia could lead to breakthroughs in preventing both shingles and cognitive decline.
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CLAIM Posted by will • Jun 19, 2026
The focus on the shingles vaccine as a means to prevent dementia might distract from addressing other significant lifestyle factors influencing brain health.
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