At what age is it recommended to administer the herpes zoster vaccine?

The herpes zoster vaccine, also known as the shingles vaccine, is recommended to be administered starting at age 60. This recommendation is based on guidelines from health organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which assert that individuals over this age have a higher risk of developing herpes zoster due to a decline in cell-mediated immunity.

At age 60, the vaccine is beneficial for reducing the incidence and severity of shingles and the associated complications, particularly postherpetic neuralgia, which can significantly affect the quality of life. While some discussions around earlier vaccination may exist, the consensus is that age 60 optimally balances safety and efficacy, allowing for maximum benefit to the at-risk population.

In summary, the correct answer emphasizes the age at which individuals can start receiving the herpes zoster vaccine to proactively prevent shingles and its complications, aligning with public health recommendations.