Courtesy of Immunize.org

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a painful rash caused by reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus—the same virus that causes chickenpox. It can lead to serious complications, including long-term nerve pain known as postherpetic neuralgia.

Fortunately, an effective vaccine called Shingrix offers strong protection for adults.

According to Immunize.org and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), Shingrix is recommended for all adults age 50 and older, even if they have previously had shingles, chickenpox, or the older live vaccine Zostavax. It is also recommended for adults age 19 and older who are or will become immunocompromised due to illness or medical treatments.

Shingrix is a non-live, recombinant vaccine given in two doses. The second dose is usually given two to six months after the first. For people with weakened immune systems, the second dose may be given as soon as one to two months later to ensure full protection. If more than six months have passed since the first dose, it’s not necessary to restart the series—simply complete it as soon as possible.

Because Shingrix is not a live vaccine, it can be safely given along with most other adult vaccines, such as flu or pneumonia shots, using different injection sites. There’s no need for prior chickenpox testing before vaccination.

Mild side effects, such as soreness at the injection site, muscle aches, or fatigue, are common but temporary. These reactions are signs that your body is building protection.

Shingrix is widely available at doctors’ offices and pharmacies. Talk to your healthcare provider to see if it’s right for you and to protect yourself from the pain and complications of shingles.