Herpes Zoster Epidemiology Forecast 2025-2034

Herpes zoster, or shingles, affects approximately 1.2 to 3.4 individuals per 1,000 healthy younger people annually. In individuals aged 65 and older, the incidence ranges from 3.9 to 11.8 cases per 1,000 per year. Recurrences of the condition are most commonly seen in those with compromised immune systems.

Herpes Zoster Epidemiology Forecast Report Coverage

The Herpes Zoster Epidemiology Forecast Report 2025-2034 delivers a comprehensive analysis of the condition’s prevalence and associated demographic factors. It projects future incidence and prevalence trends across diverse population groups, considering key variables such as age, gender, and herpes zoster type. The report highlights change in prevalence over time and offers data-driven forecasts based on influencing factors. Additionally, it provides an in-depth overview of the disease, along with historical and projected epidemiological data for eight key markets:

The United States, United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Japan, and India.

Herpes Zoster:

Disease Overview

Herpes zoster, also known as shingles, is a painful skin condition caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which initially causes chickenpox. The condition typically presents as a rash, often in a band or strip on one side of the body. It is more common in older adults and those with weakened immune systems. The incidence ranges from 1.2 to 3.4 cases per 1,000 people in younger individuals, increasing to 3.9 to 11.8 cases per 1,000 people in those aged 65 and above. Recurrences are most prevalent in immunocompromised individuals.

Epidemiology Overview

The epidemiology section of herpes zoster provides insights into the patient population, ranging from historical data to current trends, and projections for the eight major markets. The Research offers an in-depth analysis of both existing and forecasted trends for herpes zoster, based on a variety of studies. The report also examines the diagnosed patient population and their trends, breaking down the data by categories such as diagnosed cases across different age groups and patient demographics.

• Herpes zoster affects 1.2 to 3.4 individuals per 1,000 healthy younger people annually, with the incidence rising to 3.9 to 11.8 per 1,000 in those aged 65 and above.
• The risk of herpes zoster increases with age, with approximately 50% of all cases occurring in individuals over 50 years old.
• It is estimated that nearly 10% of those who have had chickenpox will go on to develop shingles later in life.
• Approximately 25% of individuals with HIV and 7% to 9% of those who have undergone renal or cardiac transplants are affected by shingles.

Herpes Zoster:

Treatment Overview

Herpes zoster, commonly known as shingles, is treated with antiviral medications, pain management strategies, and sometimes vaccines to prevent future outbreaks. The goal is to reduce symptoms, prevent complications like postherpetic neuralgia, and shorten the duration of the outbreak. Early intervention is crucial for effective treatment, especially for older adults and those with weakened immune systems.

1. Antiviral Medications:

Antiviral drugs, such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir, are commonly prescribed to reduce the severity and duration of a herpes zoster outbreak. They work by inhibiting the replication of the varicella-zoster virus, preventing the spread of the virus and accelerating healing. Antiviral treatment is most effective when started within 72 hours of the rash appearing.

2. Pain Management:

Pain associated with herpes zoster can be severe, especially in older adults. Analgesics like acetaminophen or ibuprofen are often used for mild pain. In more severe cases, opioids or prescription-strength pain relievers like tramadol may be prescribed. Topical treatments such as lidocaine patches or capsaicin cream can also help alleviate pain.

3. Corticosteroids:

Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, may be prescribed alongside antiviral treatments to reduce inflammation and swelling caused by the shingles rash. These medications help decrease pain and promote faster healing. However, they are typically used cautiously due to the risk of complications, especially in patients with weakened immune systems.

4. Vaccine for Prevention:

Vaccination with the shingles vaccine, such as Shingrix, is recommended for adults aged 50 and older to reduce the risk of developing herpes zoster. The vaccine is highly effective at preventing shingles and its complications, including postherpetic neuralgia. Even if someone has had shingles before, vaccination can help reduce the risk of recurrence.

5. Topical Treatments:

Topical treatments like calamine lotion or colloidal oatmeal baths can soothe the skin, reduce itching, and provide comfort. These remedies do not treat the underlying infection but can help alleviate symptoms like irritation and discomfort. These treatments are often used in combination with other therapies to provide symptom relief.

Herpes Zoster:

Burden Analysis

Herpes zoster significantly impacts quality of life, causing both acute pain and long-term complications. The intense pain, often described as burning or stabbing, can be debilitating and may persist long after the rash heals, leading to postherpetic neuralgia in some patients. The physical discomfort can interfere with daily activities, including work, sleep, and social interactions. Additionally, individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing organ transplants or living with HIV, face a higher risk of severe complications. The psychological toll, including anxiety and depression related to the pain and potential scarring, further diminishes the quality of life for affected individuals.

Key Epidemiology Trends

The epidemiology of diseases continues to evolve with changing population dynamics, healthcare advancements, and environmental factors. By identifying the latest epidemiological trends, it becomes possible to better understand how various diseases are affecting populations and to implement effective strategies for prevention and treatment. Below are five key trends in the epidemiology of diseases observed in recent years.

1. Rising Prevalence of Chronic Diseases Chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases are becoming more prevalent, particularly in high-income nations. This trend is largely attributed to lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of physical activity, and increased tobacco consumption. The aging population has further exacerbated the situation, as older individuals are more prone to chronic conditions. In low- and middle-income countries, the shift towards urbanisation and changing lifestyles are contributing to an increase in these conditions, further placing a burden on healthcare systems.

2. Impact of Infectious Disease Re-emergence After years of decline, infectious diseases are re-emerging in various regions. Factors such as climate change, urbanisation, and inadequate vaccination coverage have led to the resurgence of diseases like tuberculosis and malaria. These infections are now presenting new challenges in both developed and developing regions. In many cases, antimicrobial resistance is complicating treatment options, making previously treatable infections more difficult to manage. The re-emergence of outbreaks like the Ebola virus and the seasonal resurgence of influenza are reminders of the need for constant vigilance and updated public health strategies.
3. Mental Health and its Growing Burden Over recent years, there has been a significant rise in mental health disorders worldwide. Conditions like anxiety, depression, and stress-related disorders are increasingly being recognised as critical public health issues. The social and economic pressures of modern life, coupled with disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, have contributed to a noticeable uptick in mental health conditions. Moreover, the stigma associated with seeking mental health support has decreased, encouraging more individuals to seek help. As a result, the demand for mental health services has soared, placing additional strain on healthcare systems.

4. Obesity and its Role in Disease Burden The global obesity epidemic continues to rise, with its impact being seen in all regions of the world. Obesity is a major risk factor for numerous chronic diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer. Diets high in processed foods, sedentary lifestyles, and limited physical activity are contributing to the rising obesity rates. This has significant long-term health implications, as the incidence of obesity-related diseases is expected to increase dramatically, leading to greater healthcare expenditures and reduced quality of life for affected individuals.
5. Global Ageing and its Health Implications The global population is ageing at an unprecedented rate. With advancements in healthcare and sanitation, people are living longer than ever before, but they are also facing new health challenges. Age-related diseases such as dementia, arthritis, and cardiovascular diseases are becoming more common, significantly impacting the quality of life of the elderly population. In addition, the strain on healthcare systems and pension schemes is a growing concern, as older populations require more healthcare services, placing a greater burden on both public health systems and caregivers.

Analysis By Region

The epidemiology of herpes zoster varies across countries and regions due to differences in healthcare infrastructure, socioeconomic factors, cultural attitudes towards pain, and access to pain management therapies. Understanding these variations is essential for developing targeted interventions and improving patient outcomes.

Key regions include:

• The United States
• Germany
• France
• Italy
• Spain
• The United Kingdom
• Japan
• India

These regions exhibit distinct epidemiological trends, reflecting the unique challenges and opportunities within their healthcare systems.

The epidemiology of herpes zoster differs notably across countries due to variations in the prevalence of varicella (chickenpox), vaccination coverage, immune system health, age distribution, healthcare systems, and availability of antiviral treatments. In The United States, around 1 million cases of herpes zoster, also known as shingles, are diagnosed each year.

Key Questions Answered

• How do regional differences in healthcare access affect the incidence and outcomes of chronic diseases such as diabetes or hypertension?
• What are the key social determinants contributing to the rising prevalence of mental health disorders in urban populations?
• How do lifestyle factors such as diet and physical activity contribute to the increasing global burden of cardiovascular diseases?
• In what ways do environmental exposures, such as air pollution or water contamination, impact the incidence of respiratory diseases in specific regions?
• How does the demographic transition (ageing populations) influence the prevalence of age-related conditions like Alzheimer's disease and osteoporosis?
• What role does vaccination coverage play in the decline or persistence of infectious diseases like measles or whooping cough in different regions?
• How does socioeconomic inequality correlate with disparities in cancer outcomes, particularly in low-income communities?
• What is the impact of climate change on the distribution and incidence of vector-borne diseases like malaria or dengue fever?
• How do genetic predispositions and lifestyle factors interact in the development of autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus?
• What are the challenges and opportunities in accurately tracking the epidemiology of emerging infectious diseases such as COVID-19 or Ebola?

Scope of the Report

• The report covers a detailed analysis of signs and symptoms, causes, risk factors, pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment options, and classification/types of herpes zoster based on several factors.
• The herpes zoster epidemiology forecast report covers data for the eight major markets (the US, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the UK, Japan, and India)
• The report helps to identify the patient population, the unmet needs of herpes zoster are highlighted along with an assessment of the disease's risk and burden.