Older adults eligible for the herpes zoster vaccine experienced a 20% lower risk of developing dementia over a 7-year follow-up period, according to new study results. The study, conducted in Wales, used a regression discontinuity design to evaluate dementia incidence among eligible adults. receipt of the vaccine was associated with a 3.5% absolute reduction in dementia diagnoses, equating to a 20% relative risk reduction. "If these findings are truly causal, the zoster vaccine will be both far more effective as well as cost-effective in preventing or delaying dementia," noted researchers.

Source: Nature