Information on the shingles vaccine and cognition: Neurotropic viruses, including VZV, may contribute to the development of dementia. Vaccination with recombinant herpes zoster vaccine is associated with a lower risk of developing dementia. The complete two-dose schedule of the recombinant vaccine shows a more significant protective effect (HR 0.68) compared to a single dose (HR 0.89). Live attenuated herpes zoster vaccine also shows a protective effect, but to a lesser extent (20% relative reduction in the risk of dementia). The mechanism of the protective effect is probably related to the activation of trained immunity and the modulation of the anti-inflammatory response. In Slovakia, a recombinant vaccine indicated for persons â„50 years of age, or â„18 years at increased risk of herpes zoster, applied in two doses. The vaccine is not covered by public health insurance.