And the link between atopic dermatitis and shingles infection remained even when the use of corticosteroid treatment and immunosuppressant treatments for atopic dermatitis were taken into account. The researchers said this was evidence that atopic dermatitis was itself a risk factor for shingles, separate from the risk of shingles from comorbid conditions or treatments for atopic dermatitis. However, those with moderate atopic dermatitis had a 28% increased risk and those with severe atopic dermatitis had a 33% increased risk of shingles, when compared to age-matched controls. Patients with atopic dermatitis aged 30-40 had a 50% increased risk of shingles, while those aged 40-50 had a 42% increased risk, the study found. The study authors suggest that because of the increased risk of shingles they identified, people with an eczema diagnosis aged under 65 should be considered for inclusion in the shingles vaccination programme.