Shingles is a common condition that can cause a painful rash and, in some cases, lead to lasting discomfort. A vaccine is available to help prevent this illness and its potential complications. Understanding the recommended dosing schedule for this vaccine is important for maintaining optimal protection against shingles.
What is the Shingles Vaccine?
The currently recommended shingles vaccine is a recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV), known as Shingrix. This vaccine works by helping the body develop a strong defense against the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox. It is recommended for adults aged 50 years and older, even if they have previously had shingles or received the older Zostavax vaccine. The vaccine is also recommended for adults aged 19 years and older who are or will be immunodeficient or immunosuppressed due to disease or therapy. Unlike some earlier vaccines, the recombinant zoster vaccine does not contain any live virus.
How Many Doses Are Needed?
The recombinant zoster vaccine is administered as a two-dose series. For most healthy adults, the second dose is given two to six months after the first. Immunocompromised adults can receive the second dose sooner, one to two months after the first, to establish protection more quickly. Completing both doses is important for full protection. There is currently no recommendation for routine booster shots after the initial two-dose series; if more than six months have passed since the first dose, the series does not need to be restarted, and the second dose should be received as soon as possible.
Importance of Vaccination
Getting vaccinated according to the recommended schedule is beneficial because shingles can be a painful condition. It presents as a rash with blisters and can lead to long-term nerve pain called postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), which can be severe and persist for months or even years after the rash clears. The vaccine is effective, demonstrating over 90% effectiveness in preventing shingles and PHN in adults aged 50 and older. Even if shingles occurs after vaccination, the illness is milder and shorter in duration. This protection against shingles and its complications can last for at least seven years.
What to Expect After Vaccination
After receiving the shingles vaccine, individuals may experience common, mild side effects. These include soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site. Other temporary effects include muscle pain, fatigue, headache, shivering, or a low-grade fever. These reactions are normal indications that the body is building its protective response and resolve within two to three days. If concerns arise or side effects are severe, consult a healthcare provider.