The Shingles Vaccine: What You Need To Know

Shingles is a condition that affects one in three people at some point in their life. The risk of shingles increases with age especially for those aged over 60. If you’re immunocompromised, you’re also more at risk. Thankfully, there is a vaccine that can reduce your chances of developing shingles.

Shingles is a condition caused by the varicella zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. If you’ve had chickenpox in the past, you can still get shingles, because the chickenpox virus stays in the nerve cells. Shingles occur when it becomes active again.

Shingles causes a painful and blistering rash, says nib Group Medical Advisor Dr Hamish Black. The rash usually appears on one side of the body, but can be on any area, including the face, chest, back, stomach or pelvis. “It can also cause a low-grade fever and lethargy,” he adds.

While some people have mild symptoms and recover quickly, one in 10 people can experience pain and tingling of shingles for months or years. Others may need to be hospitalised, and in worst cases, shingles can lead to death. “If you have shingles near or in the eye, you will need ophthalmological care,” Hamish says. If you are an nib member, use our Find a Provider tool to assist in finding a service near you.

The good news is that there is a shingles vaccine. While it may not stop you from getting shingles, it reduces your chance of getting it. And if you do get shingles, the vaccine will help the symptoms be milder and last for a shorter amount of time.

It isn’t the same as the chickenpox vaccine – read more about that here.

People aged 60 and over are recommended to get the vaccine, and it is free for people aged in their 70s. But it’s a good idea for anyone aged over 50 to have a chat with their GP about whether they should have the vaccine, especially if you’re living with someone who has a weakened immune system.

There are two types of vaccine – Zostavax and Shingrix – and both are given through an injection, usually in the upper arm. Both are evidence-based, and the main side effects may include pain, redness, swelling or itching at the injection site, as well as headaches and tiredness. Shingrix requires two doses, and this is the vaccine you are recommended to get if you are immunocompromised. The doses are given two to six months apart (or two months apart if you’re immunocompromised). Zostavax requires one dose, and is free for Australians in their 70s. It is fine for most people but shouldn’t be given to anyone who has experienced anaphylaxis after a previous dose of any live varicella-zoster vaccine . It’s also not recommended for pregnant women.

How do the vaccines work?

“These vaccines work by imitating the presence of the virus thereby engaging the body’s natural defences,” Hamish says. “It causes our immune system to begin producing antibodies to reduce the chances the virus will reactivate.” 

Shingrix, unlike Zostavax, does not contain live virus, but rather a small part of the virus, which is why it’s recommended for immunocompromised people.  

Do you need a booster?

There is currently no booster recommendation for either the Zostavax or Shingrix vaccines.

Please note: The tips throughout this article serve as broad information and should not replace any advice you have been given by your medical practitioner.