What is Shingles?

• Shingles is an infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox.

• Shingles is most common in people over 50 years.

• You can't get shingles if you haven't had chickenpox.

• Shingles causes a painful, blistering rash that can be treated with antiviral medicine.

• The shingles vaccine helps prevent you from getting shingles.

• You can have shingles more than once. How can I avoid getting shingles?

• Shingrix (varicella-zoster) vaccination is now funded on the Australian Immunisation Schedule and available with from 1st November 2023 for certain people:

- Aged 50 + if Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander

- Aged 65 and over (non-indigenous)

- Immunocompromised adult aged 18 and over (ask your GP if you are eligible)

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Here are some brief facts about the vaccination:

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• Shingrix is over 90% effective.

• Shingrix is a course of 2 vaccinations at least 2 months apart.

Does Shingrix have side effects?

• Local injection site reaction such as pain, redness and swelling are fairly common.

• Tiredness and muscle ache was noted in 46% of pts questioned.

• Headache, fever and gastro symptoms were also noted to be possible but less common.

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Can I have at the same time as other vaccines?

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• It is safe to have with other vaccines such as flu, pneumonia vaccinations. However, it is preferable to have it separately as there is a potential for increase in adverse events in combination with other vaccinations.

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What if I had Zostavax already?

• If you had Zostavax privately you may still have Shingrix as long as 12 months have passed

• People who have previously received Zostavax®, cannot receive Shingrix® for free until at least 5 years after the Zostavax® dose. It is important to receive both doses for the best protection.

If you are unsure and would like to discuss further please call and ask to speak to Sarah our Practice Nurse.