Five W’s of Shingrix
We have been receiving various questions at Valu-Med about the new Shingrix vaccine. We thought it would be a good time to address some common questions concerning the vaccine.
What is the Shingrix vaccine?
Shingrix is a vaccine for prevention of Shingles. It is given via the intramuscular route, in a 2 dose series, with each dose separated by 2 to 6 months.
What if I had already received the original Shingles vaccine (Zostavax)?
On October 25th, 2017, the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) announced that Shingrix is now the preferred vaccine over Zostavax for the prevention of shingles. In addition to being the preferred vaccine, it is recommended that adults be revaccinated with Shingrix even if they had received Zostavax in the past. Shingrix is over 90% effective for all age groups while Zostavax has an overall efficacy of 51% and loses effectiveness in older populations.
When should you get the Shingrix vaccine?
As long as you are 50 years of age or older you can come in and get your vaccine anytime! If you had received Zostavax recently, you should wait at least 8 weeks before receiving Shingrix.
Who should get the Shingrix vaccine?
Shingrix is available and recommended for all adults 50 years of age and older.
Who should not get the vaccine?
A person should not get shingles vaccine if one has ever had a life-threatening allergic reaction to gelatin, the antibiotic neomycin, or any other component of singles vaccine.
Why should you get the Shingrix vaccine?
Shingles is a condition that is prevalent in adults in the US. After you’ve had chickenpox, the virus lies inactive in nerve tissues near your spinal cord and brain. Years later, the virus may reactivate as shingles. Approximately 99% of adults aged over 40 are vulnerable to reactivation of infection. While shingles may not be a life-threatening condition, it can be very painful and in rare cases cause permanent nerve damage, known as postherpetic neuralgia. Shingrix helps greatly reduce the risk of getting shingles.
Where can you get the Shingrix vaccine?
We have the vaccine and are ready to administer them to you at Valu-Med Pharmacy. If you have any additional questions regarding the new Shingles vaccine, feel free to call and speak to one of our Valu-Med pharmacists at 405-741-1200.
