The Shingrix Vaccine for Shingles

What is Shingles?

Shingles is a disease caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. It causes a painful, itchy rash typically on one side of the body, along with flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, and fatigue.

People can only get shingles if they have had chickenpox in the past. The virus stays dormant in the body, and reactivates years later, causing a shingles outbreak. The rash usually lasts a few weeks and can be treated with antiviral medications. It is most common in people over the age of 50.

Some people go on to have ongoing nerve pain (post-herpetic neuralgia) that can last for months or even years after the rash has cleared. Vaccination is the best way to help protect yourself, although it may not fully protect everyone who is vaccinated.

Who is eligible for a Shingrix vaccination?

Funded: Shingrix is free if your first dose is given in the year you turn 65. Both doses are funded, even if your second dose falls after you've turned 66. It’s also funded for people aged 18 and over with certain conditions that affect the immune system. Not sure if you qualify? Just ask us.

Private: Our vaccinating pharmacists can also give Shingrix to people aged 50 years and over who aren't eligible for funding. The cost is $345 per dose, or $690 for the two-dose course.

What do I need to know about the vaccine?

• Shingrix is a two-dose vaccine, with the second dose given 2 to 6 months after the first. If you have a weakened immune system, the doses may be closer together.

• It's important to have both doses to get the best protection.

• If you've had a different shingles vaccine in the past, its protection may have waned. Talk to us about whether Shingrix is right for you.

• If you've had shingles before, you can still be vaccinated, but we recommend waiting 12 months after the episode has resolved.

• Shingrix can be given alongside some other vaccines, so ask us if you'd like to combine appointments.

• Shingrix isn't suitable if you've had an allergic reaction to a previous dose or to any ingredient in the vaccine.

• In a clinical trial, Shingrix was over 90% effective at preventing shingles over a follow-up of around 3 years in adults aged 50 and over who had both doses, and protection was sustained for up to 11 years. Vaccination may not fully protect everyone who is vaccinated.

If you think you have shingles right now, please don't wait for a vaccine appointment. See us or your doctor as soon as possible, as early antiviral treatment can help.

Are there any possible side effects?

Every medication can have side effects, vaccinations are no different. Most side effects from vaccinations will settle within a few days and can be managed by resting and drinking plenty of fluids. If you are concerned about a reaction you might be having to your vaccination phone us on 03 477 9793 or Healthline on 0800 611 116.

Common responses: 

• Injection-site pain, redness and swelling

• Muscle aches and pain

• Joint pain

• Fatigue

• Headache

• Shivering

• Fever

• Gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea)

For information about what to expect after your Shingrix vaccination, click here