# Herpes Zoster awareness and prevention in Italy > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/herpes-zoster-awareness-and-prevention-in-italy > Updated: 2026-09-07T14:04:00.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2. Medical experts in Italy are raising awareness regarding Herpes Zoster, a condition that affects over 200,000 people annually. Experts from the Italian Society of General Medicine and Primary Care (Simg) noted that the virus lacks a strict seasonal pattern, though some studies indicate increased cases during warmer months. Information from the Fnomceo platform ‘Dottore ma è vero che…?’ indicates that the virus is present in approximately 95% of the population, with an estimated one in ten people over the age of 50 experiencing at least one episode. Symptoms include intense skin inflammation, burning sensations, and vesicles. Some patients may develop postherpetic neuralgia, which involves persistent pain and fatigue lasting for months. Health professionals emphasize that prevention through a two-dose vaccine is highly effective, safe, and available. Vaccination is specifically recommended for individuals aged 65 and older, as well as those aged 18 and older with specific risk factors such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or immunosuppressive conditions. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-07: Herpes zoster affects one in ten people over 50 Medical experts report that one in ten people over 50 may experience herpes zoster, a painful infection, noting that vaccines are effective in preventing complications and managing symptoms. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/herpes-zoster-affects-one-in-ten-people-over-50 ### 2026-08-20: Herpes Zoster prevention emphasized by Italian medical experts Medical experts emphasize year-round prevention for Herpes Zoster in Italy, recommending vaccination for those over 65 and high-risk individuals aged 18 and older. 7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/herpes-zoster-prevention-emphasized-by-italian-medical-experts --- Cite as: Herpes Zoster awareness and prevention in Italy. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/herpes-zoster-awareness-and-prevention-in-italy