Shingles increases Dementia Risk

Scientists caution that contracting shingles may heighten Alzheimer’s risk. An Oxford University-led study suggests the infection triggers a brain reaction tied to dementia by reactivating a dormant herpes virus, typically harmless since childhood. This causes significant plaque build up and inflammation—key Alzheimer’s markers. Shingles stems from the varicella zoster virus (VZV), initially encountered as chickenpox,...