Shingles Vaccination

The Shingles vaccine is recommended for adults over the age of 50, as they are more likely to develop Shingles. It is also advised for individuals who have previously experienced Chickenpox. 

The Shingrix vaccine is a vaccine for Shingles also known as Herpes Zoster, a painful rash caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which also causes Chickenpox. Shingrix is designed to prevent Shingles and its complications, particularly postherpetic neuralgia, a severe nerve pain that can persist long after the rash has healed. 

The Shingrix vaccine is an inactivated vaccine which is over 90% effective against the prevention of Shingles infection and over 88% effective at preventing the debilitating Post Herpetic Neuralgic complication of Shingles. 

The protection offered by the Shingles vaccine can vary, but it typically lasts for at least five years. After this period, your healthcare provider may discuss the need for a booster. 

A consultation with our specialist travel nurse costs £20 for the first appointment and £10 for additional people and follow ups. The consultation is required to assess your travel plans and medical history and recommend vaccinations for your individual needs. A dose of the Shingles vaccine costs £239, and 2 doses are required. The full course offers protection for at least 5 years.  

Please see our full price list for details and speak to our staff in clinics about customised price plans for groups, families or when you book your full course in advance. 

Common side effects of the Shingrix vaccine are generally mild and temporary. They may include: 

• Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site.
• Tiredness (fatigue).
• Headache.
• Muscle pain.
• Fever.
• Chills.
• Upset stomach or nausea.

These side effects typically resolve within a few days. Most people experience only mild symptoms, but in some cases, side effects may be more noticeable after the second dose. Severe side effects are rare. If you experience any unusual or severe reactions, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider. 

You can get the Shingles vaccine in one of our flagship clinics with locations in: 

• London: Victoria, Moorgate, London Bridge 

• Hampshire: Winchester, Southampton 

• Hertfordshire: Hitchin 

• Sussex: Brighton & Hove, Worthing 

• Kent: Ashford 

You can also visit one of our local pharmacy partners by finding a clinic near you. 

Is Shingles the same as Chickenpox? 

No, Shingles and Chickenpox are caused by the same virus, the varicella-zoster virus, but they are different conditions. 

Chickenpox is the initial infection with the varicella-zoster virus, typically occurring in childhood, and causes an itchy rash with red spots and blisters all over the body. 

 Shingles (also called herpes zoster) occurs when the varicella-zoster virus reactivates later in life, often many years after someone has had Chickenpox. Shingles causes a painful rash, usually in a band or strip on one side of the body or face and can lead to complications such as postherpetic neuralgia, a type of nerve pain. 

In short, Chickenpox is the first exposure to the virus, and Shingles happens when the dormant virus reactivates later in life.

What are the symptoms of Shingles? 

Before the onset of the rash, you may experience itching, pain or abnormal skin sensations around the site to be affected. This is followed by the rash, which starts as red spots that then develop into blisters. The blisters can take up to 4 weeks to fully heal. 

There may be associated symptoms such as headache, feeling tired and fever. 

What are the long-term effects of Shingles? 

Shingles can lead to: 

• Post Herpetic Neuralgia-this is persistence of the pain at the infection site. The pain can be shooting, burning or like electric shocks and skin is very tender to touch. The pain is debilitating and there is no treatment or cure for it. It can take months or even years to resolve. 

• Visual disturbance or loss caused by Shingles infection of the eye. 

• Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or Meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain). 

• Superimposed bacterial infection of the skin. 

• Loss of muscle function if the nerve affected is motor neurone. For example, facial paralysis from infection of the facial nerve. 

How often do you need to get the Shingles vaccine? 

After completing the two-dose series, most people will not need a booster shot. The vaccine provides long-lasting protection, with studies showing it remains highly effective for at least 5 years and likely much longer. 

Currently, there is no recommendation for regular boosters for the general population, but it is always best to check with your healthcare provider for personalised advice, especially if you have specific health concerns. 

How long after Shingles vaccine are you contagious? 

You cannot become contagious after receiving the Shingrix vaccine to prevent Shingles. The Shingrix vaccine does not contain live virus, so it does not pose any risk of spreading the virus to others. 

What is the schedule for the Shingles vaccine? 

The Shingles vaccine is administered in 2 doses: 

How often do you need a Shingles booster? 

Currently, there is no routine recommendation for a Shingles booster. However, this may vary based on individual health conditions and age. 

Can you still have the shingles vaccine if you have had shingles or been exposed? 

Yes, you can still receive the Shingrix vaccine if you have had Shingles or been exposed to someone with shingles. In fact, the vaccine is recommended for adults aged 50 and older, even if they have had shingles in the past. 

Can children have the Shingles vaccine? 

The Shingles vaccine is typically not given to children but is recommended for adults over 50 years of age. 

Who is not able to have the Shingles vaccine? 

The Shingles vaccine is not recommended for: 

• Individuals under 50 years of age (Adults over 18 with a risk of Shingles can be assessed in clinic). 

• Anyone with active Shingles infection.

• Severe allergic reaction to previous dose of Shingrix or any of its components. 

• Pregnancy and Breast Feeding.

• Acute febrile illness (fever of >38.5 degrees Celsius). 

Is the Shingles vaccine free on the NHS? 

The Shingles vaccine is usually available free of charge on the NHS to people aged 65 – 79 years old or if you are 50+ with a weakened immune system. The vaccine is available from private providers for people outside of the NHS eligibility, especially for those over 50 who wish to protect themselves against Shingles.