Story perspectives

Vaccines Show Promise: 90% Shingles, 70% RSV Protection

1/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

The shingles vaccine provides 90% protection against a painful disease that affects one in three Americans.
The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine reduces hospitalizations by nearly 70% in the first year and 60% over two years.
Annual influenza vaccines lessen illness severity, though effectiveness varies by strain prediction.
Emerging off-target benefits suggest additional protections beyond primary purposes, supported by Dr. William Schaffner (Vanderbilt University Medical Center).

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Story summary

The shingles vaccine provides 90% protection against a painful disease that affects one in three Americans.
The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine reduces hospitalizations by nearly 70% in the first year and 60% over two years.
Annual influenza vaccines lessen illness severity, though effectiveness varies by strain prediction.
Emerging off-target benefits suggest additional protections beyond primary purposes, supported by Dr. William Schaffner (Vanderbilt University Medical Center).