Shingrix /shingles vaccine


What is Shingles?

Shingles is a painful rash that usually develops on one side of the body, often the face or torso. The rash consists of blisters that typically scab over in 7 to 10 days and clears up within 2 to 4 weeks. For some people the pain can last for months or even years after the rash goes away. This long-lasting pain is called post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), and it is the most common complication of shingles. Your risk of shingles and PHN increases as you get older.

Who Should Get Shingles Vaccine?

People 50 years of age or older should get shingles vaccine. They should get the vaccine whether or not they recall having had chickenpox, which is caused by the same virus as shingles. Studies show that more than 99% of Americans aged 40 and older have had chickenpox, even if they don't remember getting the disease. There is no maximum age for getting shingles vaccine.
Even if you have had shingles, you can still receive shingles vaccine to help prevent future occurrences of the disease. There is no specific length of time you must wait after having shingles before receiving shingles vaccine, but generally you should make sure the shingles rash has disappeared before getting vaccinated.

What Everyone should know about Shingle vaccine.

On October 25, 2017, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) voted that Shingrix® is:

  • recommended for healthy adults aged 50 years and older to prevent shingles and related complications
  • recommended for adults who previously received the shingles vaccine (Zostavax®) to prevent shingles and related complications
  • the preferred vaccine for preventing shingles and related complications
Commonly asked questions:

I received a shingles vaccination in the past, do I need another shingles vaccination?

Zostavax® was licensed by the FDA in 2006 reducing the risk of developing shingles by 51% and PHN by 67%. It is given as a one dose shot. The ACIP states adults who previously received Zostavax® may take the Shingrix also. Shingrix (when taken as a 2 dose series) has demonstrated 97.2% efficacy against shingles.

How many doses do I need of the new Shingrix?

In order for Shingrix to be effective you need to take a 2 dose series. One now and one again in 2-6 months. This ensures you get superior protection from the shingles.

Will my insurance cover the cost of the vaccine?

Shingles vaccine is covered by most commercial insurances and Medicare Part D.

You may check with our office or website for more information.

Visit Shingrix.com for more information regarding the product.

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