After learning about Shingles, it is time to talk about protecting ourselves and our loved ones from Shingles using Shingrix. There can be a lot of misinformation out there about vaccinations, especially newer ones that people start taking as adults. Read on to review what brought us here, whether Shingrix is safe and who should receive the vaccine.

Shingles is a painful disease caused by a reawakening of the same virus that causes chickenpox.

How is Shingrix made?

• By isolating a protein, called glycoprotein E, from the surface of the virus and mixing it with two adjuvants, QS21 and monophosphoryl lipid A, to enhance the immune response.

There was a second version of the Shingles vaccine, known as Zostavax®, was available from 2006-2019. It was a more concentrated version of the chickenpox vaccine that children receive. Zostavax was a live, weakened form of the chickenpox virus.

Does the Vaccine work?

• Yes, Shingrix protected almost 100% of people from getting the Shingles rash and about 90% from the long-lasting pain associated with Shingles.

Who should get the vaccine?

• Anyone 50 years of age and older
• Two doses of the vaccine, separated by two to six months.

Is the vaccine safe?

• Yes!
  • Common side effects can include:
    • Redness and pain, and swelling at the injection site
    • Tiredness
    • Fever
    • Headache
    • Body aches and pain
    • Shivering

Even if a person has already had Shingles it is important for them to get the vaccine, because the virus can come back again. It is important to note that even if one has gotten Zostavax®, please consult your doctor about getting Shingrix.