Shingles is a painful and debilitating condition caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus in your body. Almost 1 in 3 people in the United States will develop shingles in their lifetime. It can cause a painful rash and, even after it disappears, can lead to lingering nerve pain. You can prevent shingles and related complications by receiving the shingles vaccine.
What is the shingles vaccine?
The vaccine, called Shingrix, is a two-dose series, with the second dose given 2-6 months after the first.
Studies have shown that when both doses are received on time, the vaccine is 97.2% effective at preventing shingles for those 50 years and older.
It is unlikely for you to get shingles after receiving the vaccine. Shingrix is not a live vaccine.
The shingles vaccine is a one-time immunization. However, there was a previous shingles vaccine called Zostavax. If you were vaccinated with Zostavax, it is recommended to get the Shingrix vaccination series.
The Zostavax vaccine was only 51% effective in those 60 years and older and only 18% effective in preventing shingles in those 81 years and older. It tended to wear off after several years, which is why it is no longer available in the U.S.
Side effects of the shingles vaccine
There are possible side effects from the Shingrix shingles vaccine, including:
- You may feel run down, achy and have a low-grade fever.
- You may experience headache, chills, nausea and malaise.
- You may also experience redness, pain or swelling at the injection site.
Side effects are the body's immune system responding to the vaccine and are more common in younger people in studies, but everyone is different. Shingrix is safe for nearly all individuals, as it is not a live vaccine.
Who needs the shingles vaccine?
Shingles can affect anyone, but it is more common in older adults and those with weakened immune systems. The virus is also linked to physical or emotional stress. The shingles vaccine is recommended for everyone over the age of 50.
If you have an active infection, it is recommended to wait until you have recovered before getting the vaccine.
Medicare and the shingles vaccine
Medicare drug plan coverage changed for the shingles vaccine expanding eligibility in 2023. If you have a Medicare D plan or Medicare drug coverage, you are now eligible for Shingrix with no copay.
The biggest barrier, cost, is now removed.
The shingles vaccine is a highly effective way to prevent shingles and its associated pain and discomfort. If you're over the age of 50, it's recommended to get vaccinated to reduce the risk of developing shingles. Talk with your primary care provider today about when to receive your vaccination.
