Anti-Alzheimer's vaccine for women

What's the news: A vaccine for shingles (herpes zoster) reduced the incidence of Alzheimer's disease in women by 20%.

Why should we believe it: This news is based on a pre-print of a study posted a few weeks ago by scientists at Stanford University. The study was based on a unique and interesting natural experiment.

A 2013 change in regulation in the UK meant that a part of the population in Wales was eligible for herpes zoster vaccination, and a part was not. Since the two groups were otherwise identical, this allowed scientists to compare the effect of the vaccine. Results:

• In men, herpes zoster vaccination did not have any effect on Alzheimer's incidence

• In women, herpes zoster vaccination reduced Alzheimer's by 20%

Why is this a big deal: Women are twice as likely as men to develop Alzheimer's. And while this vaccination didn't eliminate Alzheimer's in all women, the effects were still significant.

Beyond the direct results, the current study gives more evidence to the theory that viral infections contribute to Alzheimer's. This gives scientists clues that might lead to additional treatments down the line.

So what specifically can you do now: If you're a woman, consider getting vaccinated for herpes zoster. Not only will it give you significant protection against shingles, a painful and chronic disease, but it might also save you from developing Alzheimer's down the line.