Shingles

Frequently Asked Questions About the Shingles Vaccine (Zostavax®)

What does the shingles vaccine do?

The vaccine, called Zostavax®, reduces the risk of getting shingles in people 60 years of age and older.

Who may get the shingles vaccine?

Zostavax is approved for prevention of herpes zoster (shingles) in persons 60 years of age and older. It is not indicated for treatment of shingles or post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN).

How well does the shingles vaccine work?

In studies, the vaccine reduced the risk of developing shingles by about 50 percent. People who were vaccinated but still developed shingles had pain for fewer days than people who were not vaccinated. Probably of most importance is that vaccinated people experienced shorter periods of PHN (post-herpetic neuralgia), a severe pain that can last long after the shingles rash has disappeared.

Does the shingles vaccine cause side effects?

The most common side effects of the shingles vaccine are local reactions, such as redness, pain and tenderness, and swelling at the injection site, and headache.

How is the vaccine administered?

Zostavax is administered as a single dose injected in the back of the upper arm.

What are the contraindications to administration of Zostavax?

Zostavax should not be administered to individuals with a history of severe allergic reaction to gelatin, neomycin or any other component of the vaccine. The vaccine should not be administered to individuals with suppressed immune systems, to women of child-bearing age or pregnant females.

Should people without a history of chickenpox get the shingles vaccine?

It is assumed that every person 60 years of age and older who has lived his or her entire life in the U.S. has been exposed to chickenpox and is therefore a vaccine candidate.

Should adults who have had shingles before get the vaccine?

Persons who have had shingles are unlikely to have it again (95 percent of cases are in people with no history of shingles). However, the vaccine is approved for use in anyone 60 years of age and older regardless of history of shingles.

Does Medicare pay for shingles vaccine?

The vaccine will likely be reimbursed through Medicare Part D coverage. Beneficiaries should contact their plan directly for additional information regarding coverage.

Can the shingles vaccine be given at the same time as other vaccines?

A clinical study that included 374 persons over the age of 60 years showed that shingles vaccine and inactivated (injected) influenza vaccines can be given safely and effectively at the same health care visit.