Find a shingles vaccine near me

Shingles is a painful skin rash caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus. It can lead to serious complications like long-term nerve pain. The shingles vaccine is the best way to protect yourself. Learn what shingles is, who needs the vaccine, and where to get vaccinated before symptoms begin.

What is shingles disease?

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the nervous system and can reactivate later in life, leading to shingles, according to the CDC. The condition is characterized by a painful, blistering rash that typically appears on one side of the body or face. Other symptoms may include fever, headache, and fatigue. The rash usually resolves within a few weeks, but the pain can persist for months or even years, a condition known as postherpetic neuralgia.

Shingles is more common in older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems, although it can occur in anyone who has had chickenpox. Vaccination is an effective way to reduce the risk of developing shingles and its complications. Early treatment with antiviral medications can help alleviate symptoms and shorten the duration of the outbreak, making it important to seek medical attention promptly if shingles are suspected, according to the CDC.

How effective is the shingles vaccine?

The shingles vaccine is highly effective at preventing shingles and its most common complication, postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). In adults with healthy immune systems, two doses of Shingrix are over 90% effective at preventing shingles and PHN. For adults with weakened immune systems, Shingrix is between 68% and 91% effective, depending on their specific condition.

Studies show that protection remains strong for at least 7 years after vaccination. Even if you do develop shingles after being vaccinated, the illness is usually milder and less likely to cause lasting nerve pain.

Who should get the shingles vaccine?

The CDC recommends that all adults aged 50 and older receive the shingles vaccine, regardless of whether they have had shingles or chickenpox in the past. This recommendation is based on evidence that the vaccine significantly reduces the risk of developing shingles and its associated complications, such as postherpetic neuralgia.

The CDC emphasizes the importance of vaccination even for individuals who have previously had shingles, as this does not provide complete immunity against future outbreaks. The shingles vaccine is particularly beneficial for older adults, as the risk of shingles increases with age.

Who should not get the vaccine?

Most adults can safely receive the shingles vaccine, but there are a few exceptions. You should not get the Shingrix vaccine if you:

• Have had a severe allergic reaction to any component of the vaccine or a previous dose
• Currently have shingles (wait until the rash has cleared)
• Are currently pregnant (wait until after pregnancy to get vaccinated)
• Are moderately or severely ill (wait until you recover to get the vaccine)

If you’re unsure, talk to your healthcare provider to determine the best timing for your shingles vaccination.