From the Guidelines
Yes, the Shingrix vaccination is available for individuals with a family history of shingles, and it is recommended for adults aged 50 years and older, regardless of family history of shingles. The vaccine is administered as a two-dose series, with the second dose given 2-6 months after the first dose, as recommended by the Annals of Internal Medicine in 2020 1. Shingrix is a non-live, recombinant vaccine that stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies against the varicella-zoster virus, which causes both chickenpox and shingles. Family history of shingles does not affect eligibility for the vaccine; in fact, having relatives who developed shingles might indicate a potential genetic susceptibility to reactivation of the virus, making vaccination even more prudent.
According to the Journal of Microbiology, Immunology and Infection in 2024, Shingrix is highly effective, reducing the risk of developing shingles by more than 90% in all age groups studied, with persistence of protection conferred by RZV maintained above 83.3% for up to 8 years, and decreased to 73% at 10 years 1. The most common side effects include pain and swelling at the injection site, muscle pain, fatigue, and headache, which typically resolve within 2-3 days. These side effects are generally a sign that your body is building protection against the virus.
Some key points to consider:
- The CDC recommends 2 doses of recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV, Shingrix) 2 to 6 months apart as the preferred vaccine over zoster vaccine live (ZVL, Zostavax) 1.
- Shingrix is preferred over ZVL due to its higher efficacy and longer duration of protection 1.
- The vaccine is safe, with no significant increase in deaths or vaccine-associated serious adverse events (SAEs), although it may cause more frequent injection-site and systemic reactions compared to ZVL 1.
In summary, the Shingrix vaccination is a highly effective and safe vaccine that can help prevent shingles in adults aged 50 years and older, regardless of family history of shingles, and it is recommended to administer the vaccine as a two-dose series, with the second dose given 2-6 months after the first dose.
From the FDA Drug Label
SHINGRIX is a vaccine indicated for prevention of herpes zoster (HZ) (shingles): • in adults aged 50 years and older. • in adults aged 18 years and older who are or will be at increased risk of HZ due to immunodeficiency or immunosuppression caused by known disease or therapy.
The Shingrix (zoster vaccine) is available for individuals aged 50 years and older, as well as those with immunodeficiency or immunosuppression. Having a family history of Shingles is not a specified indication for the vaccine. However, if the individual is 50 years or older, they may be eligible for the vaccination. It is recommended to schedule with Sick Call to determine eligibility based on age or increased risk due to immunodeficiency or immunosuppression 2.
From the Research
Shingles Vaccination Availability
- The Shingrix (zoster vaccine) vaccination is available for individuals aged 50 and older, as approved by the US FDA in 2017 3.
- The vaccine is recommended for the prevention of herpes zoster (HZ) and postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) in adults aged 50 years and older 4, 5.
Family History and Vaccination
- Having a family history of Shingles does not affect the availability of the vaccination, as it is recommended for all adults aged 50 and older, regardless of family history 4, 5.
- The vaccine has been shown to be highly effective in preventing HZ and PHN, with a vaccine efficacy of 97.2% among participants 50 years of age or older 3.
Vaccination Policy
- A single vaccination policy at age 65 years was found to be the most favorable option in both males and females, according to a study on the incidence of shingles and its implications for vaccination policy 6.
- However, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommends the recombinant adjuvanted zoster vaccine (RZV, trade name Shingrix) for immunocompetent adults age 50 years and older 5.
IDOC and Vaccination
- There is no direct evidence provided on whether IDOC offers the Shingrix vaccination, but it is recommended that individuals with a family history of Shingles consult with their healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.
- The request to schedule a vaccination with Sick Call suggests that IDOC may offer vaccination services, but this is not explicitly stated in the provided evidence.