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Travel health.
Clearly explained.

Shingles vaccine

Shingrix reduces the risk of shingles and post-herpetic neuralgia.

What is it?

Shingles is caused by reactivation of varicella-zoster virus and produces a painful blistering rash. Nerve pain can persist long after the rash resolves.

Where it may be relevant

  • Older adults within current NHS age cohorts
  • Severely immunosuppressed adults meeting programme criteria
  • People seeking a private age- and risk-based assessment

Dose schedules.

The clinician will select the appropriate licensed schedule after reviewing age, health, previous doses and departure date.

Immunocompetent course

Eligible adults

Dose 1Day 0
Dose 26–12 months

Immunosuppressed course

Eligible adults

Dose 1Day 0
Dose 28 weeks–6 months

The interval is selected according to clinical circumstances.

Who may be eligible

  • Adults for whom Shingrix is licensed and clinically appropriate
  • Dose timing determined by age, immune status and previous shingles vaccination

Who may not be eligible

  • Anyone with a confirmed severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or a vaccine ingredient
  • People who are acutely unwell with a significant fever may need vaccination deferred
  • Pregnancy, breastfeeding, immune suppression and current medicines must be reviewed individually

Potential side effects

  • Pain, redness or swelling where the injection is given
  • Headache, tiredness, muscle aches or a mild fever
  • Feeling faint around the time of vaccination
  • Short-lived fatigue, chills and gastrointestinal symptoms are relatively common

Important risks and precautions

  • A severe allergic reaction is very rare and requires urgent treatment
  • Protection is not absolute, so relevant food, water, bite or exposure precautions remain important
  • The exact product and schedule must be confirmed during a clinical assessment

Clinical references

Further information.

Information is general and does not replace a personal assessment, prescribing decision or the latest destination-specific advice.

Frequently asked questions

What does the shingles vaccine protect against?

It reduces shingles and long-lasting post-herpetic nerve pain.

Who should consider the shingles vaccine?

It is mainly considered according to age and immune risk.

How many doses of the shingles vaccine are needed?

Shingrix uses two doses; the interval depends on immune status and programme eligibility.

Can I have the shingles vaccine close to departure?

Book an assessment even when departure is close. Whether vaccination can be completed or still provide useful protection depends on the product, previous doses and time available.

Can the shingles vaccine be given with other vaccines?

Many vaccines can be given at the same appointment, but spacing rules can apply to some live vaccines. The clinician will check the products, your history and the proposed schedule.