Shingles Vaccine
Who Should Get It:
The shingles vaccine protects against shingles (herpes zoster), a painful rash caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus. It’s recommended for:
Adults aged 50 and older, even if they've had shingles before
Adults 19 and older with weakened immune systems (e.g., from cancer, HIV, or medications)
People who had the older Zostavax vaccine should still get Shingrix for stronger protection
Before the Injection:
Let your provider know if you have a fever, are pregnant, or had an allergic reaction to a previous shingles vaccine
No special preparation is needed
After the Injection:
Mild side effects may include:
Soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site
Fatigue, headache, fever, or muscle pain
Chills or upset stomach (usually after the second dose)
These symptoms are common and typically resolve in 1–3 days.
Severe reactions are rare.
Protection Timeline:
Given as 2 doses, 2–6 months apart
Full protection builds after the second dose
Over 90% effective and offers long-lasting immunity for years
Who Should Get It:
The shingles vaccine protects against shingles (herpes zoster), a painful rash caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus. It’s recommended for:
Adults aged 50 and older, even if they've had shingles before
Adults 19 and older with weakened immune systems (e.g., from cancer, HIV, or medications)
People who had the older Zostavax vaccine should still get Shingrix for stronger protection
Before the Injection:
Let your provider know if you have a fever, are pregnant, or had an allergic reaction to a previous shingles vaccine
No special preparation is needed
After the Injection:
Mild side effects may include:
Soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site
Fatigue, headache, fever, or muscle pain
Chills or upset stomach (usually after the second dose)
These symptoms are common and typically resolve in 1–3 days.
Severe reactions are rare.
Protection Timeline:
Given as 2 doses, 2–6 months apart
Full protection builds after the second dose
Over 90% effective and offers long-lasting immunity for years