Shingrix Vaccine

[Pusph]

Hi, would just be interested in your views/advice please.I apparently had shingles years ago in my 30s I think, but I had no rash. And I believe I had chickenpox as a child.

Would it be advisable for me to still have the vaccine please?

Thanks.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Most definitely - once you’ve had CP as a child then the virus remains in your body, albeit dormant, and whilst you may have got through shingles without too much issue in your 30s, it could be different in your 60s and 70s especially with a weakened immune system.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

All the more reason to have the vaccine. You can ONLY develop shingles after having CP as a child, it is a reawakening of the virus which remains dormant in nerves. You don't CATCH shingles. Having the vaccine reduces the likelihood of the virus waking up to almost nil and also reduces the risk of post-herpetic neuralgia if it does - and that is a worst bit about shingles, the nerve pain it can cause.

[Pusph in reply to PMRpro]

And it is the Shingrix vax I should have - 2 jabs I believe?, and not the Zostavax single one isn't it please?!

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer in reply to Pusph]

Correct…..

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Pusph]

Yes - since Sept first it is the Shingrix vaccine that is being used but they are using up the last dregs of the Zostavax supply from the cupboard so you do need to watch out they don;t try to fob you off!

[Pusph in reply to PMRpro]

Thank you, no I shall double check it before they give it! Also, one last thing - do you know if it's OK to have the Shingrix near to the autumn covid booster or should I leave a few weeks in between them? Thanks.

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Pusph]

We tend to feel you need at least a week between 2 jabs - just to know which might have caused a problem!

[Indigo2417]

From experience I would definitely say have the vaccine. I had shingles in my teens and it wasn’t too bad. I got it again last year for two months and it was extremely painful. I still have the residue of soreness where I had the rash, which the nurse told me was nerve damage. I’m getting my first shingles jab this month, delayed due to me getting Covid.

[Miacaro45]

Yes, please get the vaccine. Having Shingles is awful. We are so fortunate to have the vaccine available.

[Sharitone]

Have you been called by the surgery? If not, you may unfortunately (and unfairly) have to wait until you are 70, unless you are immunocompromised, to get it for free.

[Pusph in reply to Sharitone]

I've booked for the jab - first date available - 27th December!!