Herpes Zoster (Shingles) Infection Following COVID-19 Vaccination: An Association or Coincidence?

Abstract

Since early 2020, and till early 2022 the world suffered COVID-19 pandemic. Thanks to medical science for developing a fast track and effective COVID-19 vaccine which is aimed to reduce the infection rates and provide sufficient immunity. Clinicians worldwide are monitoring possible side effects and adverse events of the different COVID-19 Vaccines. In this case series, we report 4 cases of Herpes Zoster infection noted in patients after having COVID-19 vaccine including Pfizer, Moderna and Sinopharm Vaccines. Discussion and Conclusion: We present 4 patients who were reviewed in the outpatient clinics presenting with an erythematous, painful, blistering, unilateral rash which was typical of Herpes Zoster infection following COVID-19 vaccination. They were between 23-54 years of age and had no significant past medical history. We suspect the eruption of Herpes Zoster rash is likely linked to COVID-19 vaccination. However, this could also be a mere coincidence. Further research is needed to establish a proven link.