A nurse is educating a group of new parents about tetanus prevention. Which of the following statements is accurate regarding immunization against tetanus?

Choice A rationale:

(Incorrect) Shingles, caused by the varicella-zoster virus, can be transmitted through direct contact with the fluid from the vesicles (blisters) of a person who has active shingles. However, it is important for the nurse to provide correct information to the client.

Choice B rationale:

(Correct) Shingles can only occur in individuals who have previously had chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the nerve tissues. Later in life, the virus can reactivate, leading to shingles. It is crucial for the nurse to emphasize this point to prevent any misunderstandings.

Choice C rationale:

(Incorrect) While the shingles vaccine is effective in reducing the risk of developing shingles, it does not have a 100% efficacy rate. The vaccine can, however, reduce the severity and duration of the illness if shingles still occur after vaccination.

Choice D rationale:

(Incorrect) The herpes zoster vaccine (shingles vaccine) is not given to children under 10 years old. It is recommended for adults aged 50 years and older or for individuals with certain risk factors.

Choice A rationale:

Postherpetic neuralgia is a potential complication of shingles. It occurs when nerve pain persists even after the rash has healed and can be a long-term and debilitating condition.

Choice B rationale:

Cranial nerve palsies can be a complication of shingles when the herpes zoster virus affects the cranial nerves, leading to neurological symptoms and complications.

Choice C rationale:

Bacterial superinfection is not a common complication of shingles. Shingles is caused by a viral infection, and while bacterial superinfection can occur if there is a secondary bacterial infection of the skin lesions, it is not a primary concern.

Choice D rationale:

Reye syndrome is not associated with shingles or its treatment. Reye syndrome is a rare but serious condition that primarily affects children recovering from viral infections, particularly those who have taken aspirin.

Choice E rationale:

Eye involvement is a potential complication of shingles, particularly if the herpes zoster virus affects the ophthalmic nerve, leading to eye pain, redness, and sometimes vision problems. Immediate medical attention is required in such cases to prevent complications that could lead to vision loss.