Shingles Virus Linked to Accelerated Aging and Dementia Risk
New research reveals that reactivations of the shingles virus may lead to faster aging and increased dementia risk. Scientists are investigating if vaccines and antivirals could help protect the brain.
A growing body of evidence suggests the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which causes shingles, may accelerate aging and raise the risk of developing dementia. This virus, which lies dormant in the body after an initial chickenpox infection, can reactivate later in life and trigger shingles outbreaks. Now scientists are exploring whether vaccines and antiviral drugs could help protect the brain by preventing shingles reactivation.
The connection between shingles and cognitive decline first emerged in studies of older adults. Researchers found that people who had experienced shingles had a significantly higher risk of developing dementia, compared to those who had not had the disease. Further studies have indicated that shingles may contribute to accelerated aging by damaging brain cells and disrupting normal brain function.
Fonte: Wired
