Shingles is a painful and potentially debilitating condition caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. The risk of shingles increases with age, and the condition can be particularly severe in older adults. Fortunately, there is a vaccine available that can help prevent shingles and reduce the severity of the condition in those who do get it. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about the shingles vaccine, from how it works to who should get it.
What is the shingles vaccine?
The shingles vaccine is a vaccine that helps to protect against the varicella-zoster virus, which can cause shingles. The vaccine works by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies against the virus, which can help prevent the virus from causing an infection. The shingles vaccine is also known as the herpes zoster vaccine, and it is currently available in two forms: Zostavax and Shingrix.
Zostavax
Zostavax is a live vaccine that contains a weakened form of the varicella-zoster virus. It is given as a single injection, and it is recommended for use in adults aged 60 years and older. Zostavax has been shown to reduce the risk of shingles by about 51%, and it can also help reduce the severity of the condition in those who do get it.
Shingrix
Shingrix is a non-live vaccine that contains a protein found in the varicella-zoster virus. It is given as a series of two injections, and it is recommended for use in adults aged 50 years and older. Shingrix has been shown to be more effective than Zostavax, reducing the risk of shingles by more than 90%. It can also help reduce the severity of the condition in those who do get it.
Who should get the shingles vaccine?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults aged 50 years and older get the shingles vaccine. This recommendation applies to both Zostavax and Shingrix, although Shingrix is preferred over Zostavax. Adults who have already had shingles should still get the shingles vaccine, as it can help prevent future episodes of the condition.
Are there any side effects of the shingles vaccine?
Like all vaccines, the shingles vaccine can cause side effects. The most common side effects are mild and include redness, swelling, and pain at the injection site. Some people may also experience fever, headache, or muscle aches. These side effects usually go away on their own within a few days.
How effective is the shingles vaccine?
Both Zostavax and Shingrix are effective at reducing the risk of shingles and the severity of the condition in those who do get it. However, Shingrix is more effective than Zostavax, reducing the risk of shingles by more than 90%. Shingrix also provides longer-lasting protection than Zostavax.
How long does the shingles vaccine last?
The shingles vaccine provides long-lasting protection against the varicella-zoster virus. For Zostavax, the protection lasts for about 5 years, although it may last longer in some people. For Shingrix, the protection lasts for at least 4 years, and it may provide protection for much longer than that.
Is the shingles vaccine covered by insurance?
Most health insurance plans cover the cost of the shingles vaccine for adults aged 50 years and older. Medicare Part D also covers the cost of the vaccine. However, coverage may vary depending on your specific plan, so it's a good idea to check with your insurance provider before getting the vaccine.
How do I get the shingles vaccine?
If you're interested in getting the shingles vaccine, you should talk to your doctor or healthcare provider. They can help you determine which vaccine is right for you and when you should get it. You can also check with your local pharmacy, as many pharmacies now offer the shingles vaccine.
Can I get shingles even if I've had the vaccine?
While the shingles vaccine is highly effective, it is still possible to get shingles even if you've had the vaccine. However, if you do get shingles after being vaccinated, the condition is likely to be milder and shorter-lived than if you had not been vaccinated.
Are there any reasons why I shouldn't get the shingles vaccine?
In general, the shingles vaccine is safe and well-tolerated. However, there are some reasons why you might not be able to get the vaccine. For example, if you have a weakened immune system due to a medical condition or medication, you may not be able to get the vaccine. You should talk to your doctor or healthcare provider if you have any concerns about getting the shingles vaccine.
FAQs
- How long does the shingles vaccine take to become effective?
- It can take a few weeks for the vaccine to become fully effective.
- Can I get the shingles vaccine if I've had shingles before?
- Yes, you can still get the vaccine even if you've had shingles before.
- Do I need to get the shingles vaccine every year?
- No, the shingles vaccine provides long-lasting protection and only needs to be given once or twice depending on the type of vaccine.
- Can the shingles vaccine cause shingles?
- No, the shingles vaccine cannot cause shingles.
- How much does the shingles vaccine cost?
- The cost of the shingles vaccine can vary depending on your insurance coverage and where you get it, but it is usually covered by insurance for those aged 50 and older.
The shingles vaccine is an important tool in preventing shingles and reducing the severity of the condition in those who do get it. If you're over 50 years old, talk to your doctor or healthcare provider about getting the vaccine. Remember that while the vaccine is highly effective, it's still possible to get shingles even if you've been vaccinated, although the condition is likely to be milder and shorter-lived.