UAE recommends shingles vaccine for adults 50+ to lower dementia, heart attack, and stroke risks.

The UAE is urging adults over 50 to get the shingles vaccine, now part of its national immunization program, after research presented at IDWeek 2025 showed it reduces risks of vascular dementia, heart attack, stroke, blood clots, and death. The two-dose Shingrix vaccine, effective for at least 10 years, is recommended for those 50 and older who’ve had chickenpox, as well as younger adults with weakened immune systems. Despite availability and proven high efficacy, awareness remains low, with fewer than 4% of eligible adults vaccinated. Health officials stress completing both doses and consulting providers to prevent shingles and its long-term complications.