Shingles: what it is and who should consider the vaccine

If you have had chickenpox, the virus that caused it is still in your body. Years later it can wake up again as shingles: a painful rash that can disrupt sleep and daily life for weeks. The risk rises with age, but vaccination can help protect you.

What is shingles?

Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. After chickenpox clears, the virus stays inactive in the nerves. As the immune system weakens with age, illness or some treatments, it can reactivate.

It usually starts with burning, tingling or itching on one side of the body, followed a few days later by a band of painful blisters. The rash most often appears on the chest, back or face, and usually heals within two to four weeks.

Why it matters

For many people the pain is the hardest part. Some, especially older adults, go on to have postherpetic neuralgia: nerve pain that continues for months, or longer, after the rash has healed. Shingles near the eye can also affect eyesight and needs prompt treatment.

Who is at higher risk

• adults aged 50 and above, with the risk rising with age
• people with a weakened immune system, for example from cancer treatment, an organ transplant or certain medicines
• people with long-term conditions such as diabetes

Who should consider the vaccine

Shingles vaccination is recommended for:

• adults aged 50 and above
• adults aged 18 and above with a higher risk because of a weakened immune system

You can be vaccinated even if you have had shingles before, or are not sure whether you had chickenpox. If you have shingles now, wait until the rash has cleared.

What to expect

The vaccine does not contain live virus. It is given as two injections, usually two to six months apart; your doctor will advise the right interval for you. Both doses are needed for full protection.

Side effects are common but short-lived, usually settling within two to three days:

• a sore, red or swollen arm
• tiredness, headache or aching muscles
• shivering, a mild fever or an upset stomach

When to wait or check first

Let the doctor know before your vaccination if you:

• have had a serious allergic reaction to a vaccine before
• are unwell with a fever on the day
• are pregnant or breastfeeding

This article is general health information and does not replace advice from your doctor.