Shingles is a viral infection that causes a painful rash, typically presenting as a stripe of blisters on one side of the body. It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox. After chickenpox, the virus remains inactive and can reactivate years later as shingles. The shingles vaccine aims to prevent this painful disease and its potential complications.
Understanding the Shingles Vaccine
The shingles vaccine recommended in the U.S. is called Shingrix. It is a two-dose series. For most adults, the second dose is given between two and six months after the first dose.
Shingrix is recommended for adults 50 and older. It is also advised for adults 19 and older with weakened immune systems. For those with weakened immune systems, the second dose can be given sooner, one to two months after the first.
Do You Need a Shingles Vaccine Booster?
A routine booster dose of Shingrix is not recommended after completing the two-dose series. This is due to the vaccine’s high effectiveness and the duration of protection against shingles and its complications.
For adults 50-69 with healthy immune systems, the vaccine is 97% effective against shingles. For those 70+, effectiveness is 91%. It also provides substantial protection against postherpetic neuralgia, a common complication, with 91% effectiveness in adults 50+ and 89% in those 70+.
Studies show the vaccine maintains strong effectiveness for at least seven years in those 70+. Recent data suggests Shingrix can sustain nearly 80% efficacy in adults 50+ for up to eleven years after vaccination.
Important Considerations for Vaccination
Common side effects include pain, redness, and swelling at the injection site. Other effects can include muscle pain, tiredness, headache, shivering, fever, or an upset stomach.
These reactions are temporary, lasting for about two to three days. Some side effects, such as headache and muscle pain, can be more pronounced after the second dose compared to the first.
The vaccine should not be given in certain situations. Do not receive it if you have a severe allergic reaction to any vaccine component or a previous Shingrix dose. Postpone vaccination if you currently have shingles or are moderately or severely ill. Pregnant individuals should wait until after pregnancy. For personalized medical advice, consult your healthcare provider.