Shingrix: Side Effects, Effectiveness & Who Should Get It
Shingrix is highly effective for adults 50 and older. Here is what you need to know about the two-dose schedule, common side effects, and long-term protection against shingles complications.
Shingrix is a two-dose shingles vaccine recommended by the CDC for adults 50 and older. It is over 90 percent effective at preventing shingles and postherpetic neuralgia, a severe, long-term nerve pain. While side effects like soreness and fatigue are common, they typically last only two to three days.
For more information, see NIA health information for older adults from the National Institute on Aging.
What Is Shingrix and How Does It Work?
Shingrix, also known as the recombinant zoster vaccine, is currently the only shingles vaccine available in the United States. It is manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline. Unlike the older vaccine Zostavax, which is no longer available, Shingrix is not a live virus vaccine. It uses a small piece of the varicella-zoster virus that cannot replicate. This design allows the immune system to build strong defenses without the risk of spreading the virus to others or causing a mild shingles outbreak.
The vaccine is administered as an injection in the upper arm. The CDC recommends that healthy adults receive two doses, spaced two to six months apart. For individuals with weakened immune systems, the second dose can be given as soon as one month after the first, depending on medical advice. There is no maximum age limit for receiving this vaccine.
How Effective Is the Shingles Vaccine in Older Adults?
Effectiveness data from clinical trials shows that Shingrix provides robust protection regardless of age. For adults between 50 and 69 years old, the vaccine is 97 percent effective at preventing shingles. For those 70 years and older, it is 91 percent effective. This protection extends to the most common complication of shingles, postherpetic neuralgia, also known as PHN. In adults 50 and older, the vaccine is 91 percent effective at preventing PHN, and it remains 89 percent effective for those 70 and older.
Studies indicate that immunity remains high for at least seven years after the second dose. Because the risk of shingles increases with age, maintaining this high level of protection is crucial for seniors who want to avoid severe pain or vision loss associated with the disease.
Is the Vaccine Useful If I Have Already Had Shingles?
Yes. The CDC states that individuals who have previously had shingles should still get Shingrix. The vaccine helps prevent recurrence. There is no required waiting period after the shingles rash disappears. You should only ensure that any active rash or symptoms have fully resolved before your first dose.
What Are the Common Side Effects of Shingrix?
Shingrix triggers a strong immune response, which can lead to temporary side effects. These reactions are generally mild and may temporarily interrupt daily activities. Most symptoms resolve on their own within two to three days.
- Pain at the injection site The arm where the shot was administered may feel sore, red, or swollen.
- Body aches and fatigue Feeling tired, experiencing muscle pain, or having general body achiness is common.
- Systemic symptoms Some recipients report headache, chills, fever, stomach pain, or nausea.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, side effects were more common in younger adults but still occurred in seniors. These temporary symptoms are far less severe than the pain associated with shingles itself. Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage discomfort during this period.
Are There Serious Risks with Shingrix?
Severe reactions are rare. The CDC notes that Guillain-Barré syndrome, a nervous system disorder, has been reported very rarely after Shingrix. However, it is important to note that having shingles itself also carries a small risk of this condition. If you experience signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as hives, swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing, call 911 immediately. Any adverse events can be reported to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System, or VAERS.
Who Should Not Get the Shingles Vaccine?
While Shingrix is safe for most people, there are specific groups who should wait or avoid the vaccine. You should not get Shingrix if you have ever had a severe allergic reaction to any component of the vaccine or a previous dose of Shingrix. Additionally, you should wait until you have recovered from a moderate or severe illness before getting vaccinated.
Pregnant women should not receive Shingrix; it is recommended to wait until after delivery. Individuals who are currently active with shingles should also delay vaccination until the rash is gone. If you are unsure whether you have had chickenpox, you can still get the vaccine. Most Americans born before 1980 have had chickenpox, even if they do not remember it.
Is Shingrix Worth It for Seniors?
For many older adults, the benefits of Shingrix outweigh the risks. Shingles affects one in three people in the United States over their lifetime. The complications can be debilitating. PHN can last for months or years. The vaccine significantly reduces the chance of developing this chronic pain. With Medicare Part D covering the cost, many seniors can receive the vaccine at no out-of-pocket expense, making it an accessible preventive measure.
Does Insurance Cover the Cost?
Coverage varies by plan. Since before 2026, Medicare Part D plans are required to cover the Shingrix vaccine with no out-of-pocket costs for the patient. Many private health insurance plans also cover the vaccine, though some may charge a copay. Medicaid coverage varies by state. If you do not have insurance, you may be eligible for assistance programs through the manufacturer, GlaxoSmithKline.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shingrix
Do I need a booster shot after the two doses?
No. According to the CDC, there is currently no recommendation for a booster dose after completing the two-dose Shingrix series. Protection is expected to last for many years, with studies confirming high efficacy for at least seven years.
Can I get shingles if I have been vaccinated?
It is possible, but less likely. Breakthrough cases usually present with milder symptoms and a shorter duration of illness. Vaccination significantly lowers the risk of complications like postherpetic neuralgia even if shingles does occur.
What should I do if my arm is sore after the shot?
Soreness is a common side effect that usually lasts two to three days. Applying a cool compress and taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help. If the pain persists beyond a few days or worsens, contact your healthcare provider.
Is Shingrix safe for people with weak immune systems?
Yes. Adults 19 and older with weakened immune systems are recommended to get Shingrix. It is safe for people with immune-related conditions or therapies. The vaccination schedule may be adjusted, with the second dose given as soon as one month after the first, but you should consult your doctor for specific medical guidance.