Archive · 21 Jan 2026
Shingles Vaccine May Slow Biological Ageing in Older Adults
A new study found that the shingles vaccine, which protects against a painful skin rash caused by the chickenpox virus, might also help older adults age more slowly.
The researchers looked at over 3,800 people aged 70 and older and found that those who got the vaccine had less inflammation and slower ageing at a genetic level.
This means the vaccine could help people stay healthier as they get older by reducing inflammation, which is linked to many age-related conditions like heart disease and memory problems.
The exact way it works isn't fully understood yet, but it's a promising addition to strategies for healthier ageing.
Shingles vaccine may slow down biological ageing in older adults.
Study found vaccinated individuals had lower inflammation and slower genetic ageing.
Vaccine may reduce chronic, low-level inflammation linked to age-related conditions.
Research suggests potential benefits for systemic inflammation and overall biological ageing.
Study involved over 3,800 participants aged 70 and older.
- Who
- Older adults aged 70 and above
- What
- Shingles vaccine may slow down biological ageing and reduce inflammation
- When
- Study conducted in 2016
- Where
- University of Southern California, USA
- Why
- To explore the effects of shingles vaccination on biological ageing and inflammation
- Vaccine Type
- Shingles vaccine
- Study Participants
- More than 3,800 participants aged 70 and older
- Key Findings
- Lower inflammation, slower genetic ageing, lower overall biological ageing score
- Study Author
- Jung Ki Kim, research associate professor of gerontology at the University of Southern California
- Publication
- The Journals of Gerontology Series A
- Potential Benefits
- Reduced inflammation, slower ageing, protection against neurodegenerative disorders