Disclaimer: This is general health information only and is not a substitute for advice from your GP or healthcare professional.
1. What is the shingles vaccine?
The shingles vaccine protects against herpes zoster, a viral infection that causes a painful rash and blisters, often in a band on one side of the body. It also helps prevent postherpetic neuralgia, a complication causing persistent nerve pain after shingles. Shingrix® is currently the only shingles vaccine in use in Australia, as the older Zostavax vaccine was deregistered in late 2024.
2. Who should get the shingles vaccine?
The vaccine is recommended for adults aged 50 years and older, even if they have had shingles before. People with certain weakened immune systems may also be advised to get vaccinated.
3. How many doses are required?
Shingrix® is given as two doses, 2–6 months apart. For immunocompromised adults, the interval may be shortened to 1–2 months. Completing both doses ensures maximum protection.
4. How effective is the shingles vaccine?
Shingrix® is highly effective, reducing the risk of shingles by around 90 percent in healthy adults, and maintaining strong protection even in older adults.
5. How is the vaccine given?
The vaccine is administered as an intramuscular injection, usually in the upper arm. It is not a live vaccine, making it safe for many people with weakened immunity.
6. What are common side effects?
Side effects are usually mild and temporary, including pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site, fatigue, headache, or low-grade fever. Symptoms typically resolve within a few days.
7. Who should not receive the shingles vaccine?
People with severe allergic reactions to a previous dose or its components should not receive the vaccine. Those who are currently ill with moderate or severe infection are usually advised to wait until recovery.
8. Can I get shingles after vaccination?
Yes, but the vaccine significantly reduces the risk and usually makes the infection less severe if it occurs.
9. Is the shingles vaccine available on the National Immunisation Program (NIP)?
Yes. As of 2025, a 2-dose course of Shingrix® is free for all adults aged 65 years and over, for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 years and over, and for immunocompromised adults aged 18 years and older with specific high-risk medical conditions. Adults aged 50–64 who are not eligible for the free program can still purchase the vaccine privately for approximately $280–$320 per dose. People who previously received the old Zostavax vaccine must wait before receiving Shingrix for free; if Zostavax was received under the NIP, they wait 5 years, while if Zostavax was paid for privately, they wait 12 months.
10. How long does protection last?
Protection is long-lasting, with studies showing high effectiveness for at least 10 years. Booster doses are not routinely recommended at this time.
