If you’ve had chickenpox, the virus that caused it is still in your body. Years later, it can reactivate as shingles, a painful, blistering rash that usually appears on one side of the body. About 1 in 3 people in the U.S. will develop shingles in their lifetime, and the risk rises with age. Fortunately, a highly effective vaccine can greatly reduce your chances.
What is shingles?
Shingles (herpes zoster) is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. After chickenpox, the virus lies dormant in nerve tissue. When the immune system weakens with age, stress or certain medical conditions, the virus can reactivate.
Symptoms
- Pain, burning, tingling or itching, often a few days before the rash appears
- A rash of fluid-filled blisters, usually in a band on one side of the body or face
- Fever, headache and fatigue
Possible complications
- Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN): nerve pain that lasts months or even years after the rash heals. It’s the most common complication, and the risk increases with age.
- Eye problems, including vision loss, if shingles affects the eye area
- Rarely, hearing problems, pneumonia, brain inflammation or stroke
Who should get the shingles vaccine?
According to the CDC, the recombinant shingles vaccine (Shingrix) is recommended for:
- Adults 50 and older
- Adults 19 and older with weakened immune systems due to disease or treatment
You should get the vaccine even if you:
- Have already had shingles (it can come back)
- Don’t remember having chickenpox
- Previously received the older shingles vaccine (Zostavax), which is no longer available in the U.S.
How many doses?
Shingrix is given as two doses, usually 2 to 6 months apart. People with weakened immune systems may get the second dose 1 to 2 months after the first. It’s important to get both doses for the best protection.
How well does it work?
Two doses of Shingrix are more than 90% effective at preventing shingles and postherpetic neuralgia in adults 50 and older, and protection stays strong for many years.
Side effects
Side effects are common but usually short-lived, lasting 2 to 3 days. They may include a sore arm, redness and swelling at the injection site, tiredness, muscle aches, headache, shivering, fever and upset stomach. Some people feel unwell enough to take a day off. Plan accordingly, but don’t skip the second dose.
What this means for you
If you’re 50 or older, ask your doctor or pharmacist about Shingrix. Many pharmacies offer it, and it’s covered by many insurance plans, including Medicare Part D. Check our adult vaccine checklist for other vaccines you may need.
The bottom line
Shingles can cause a painful rash and long-lasting nerve pain, especially in older adults. Two doses of the shingles vaccine offer strong, lasting protection for adults 50 and older and for younger adults with weakened immune systems.
Common questions
Can I get Shingrix if I currently have shingles?
Wait until the rash has healed and symptoms are gone before getting vaccinated.
Is shingles contagious?
You can’t catch shingles from someone, but the virus from shingles blisters can spread and cause chickenpox in people who’ve never had chickenpox or the vaccine.
Does Medicare cover the shingles vaccine?
Shingrix is generally covered under Medicare Part D with no out-of-pocket cost for many beneficiaries. Check with your plan.
This article is for general information and isn’t medical advice. Talk with your healthcare provider about your individual needs.
