Should I get the Shingrix (recombinant zoster vaccine) vaccine if I've had shingles?

Shingles Vaccination After Previous Herpes Zoster Infection

Yes, you should get the Shingrix (recombinant zoster vaccine) vaccine even if you've had shingles previously, as it is strongly recommended to prevent recurrent episodes of herpes zoster. 1

Rationale for Vaccination After Shingles

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) strongly recommend Shingrix vaccination for all adults aged 50 years and older, including those who have previously experienced shingles. This recommendation is based on several key factors:

• Having a prior episode of shingles does not provide lifelong immunity against recurrence
• Shingrix provides high efficacy (>90%) against herpes zoster in all age groups 1
• Revaccination with Shingrix is well-tolerated without increased safety concerns 1

Timing of Vaccination After Shingles

If you've recently had shingles, you should wait until:

• At least 2 months after the acute stage has resolved
• Symptoms have completely abated 1

This timing ensures optimal immune response to the vaccine while avoiding potential complications during active infection.

Vaccine Efficacy and Protection

Shingrix offers superior protection compared to the older live zoster vaccine (Zostavax):

• 97.2% efficacy in adults 50+ years
• 91.3% efficacy in adults 70+ years 1
• 76.0% effectiveness against postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), the most common debilitating complication of shingles 2

Real-world effectiveness studies confirm these benefits, with two-dose effectiveness of 70.1% against herpes zoster 2.

Vaccination Schedule

For optimal protection, complete the full two-dose series:

• Two doses (0.5 mL each) administered 2-6 months apart for immunocompetent adults
• Shortened interval of 1-2 months for immunocompromised adults 1

Completing both doses is crucial, as single-dose effectiveness (56.9%) is significantly lower than two-dose effectiveness (70.1%) 2.

Common Side Effects

Be prepared for potential side effects, which are generally mild to moderate and transient:

• Injection-site reactions (pain, redness, swelling)
• Systemic reactions (myalgia, fatigue, headache) 1, 3

These reactions typically resolve within 2-3 days and reflect the robust immune response the vaccine generates.

Special Considerations

• Age: Shingrix is recommended for all adults 50+ years, with well-preserved efficacy even in adults 70+ years 1
• Immunocompromised status: Shingrix is recommended for adults 18+ years who are immunocompromised, with a modified dosing schedule 1
• Autoimmune conditions: Two-dose vaccine effectiveness remains high in people with autoimmune conditions 2

Key Takeaways

1. Previous shingles infection does not prevent future recurrences
2. Shingrix is strongly recommended even after having shingles
3. Wait at least 2 months after shingles resolution before vaccination
4. Complete both doses for optimal protection
5. The vaccine is safe and effective across all eligible age groups

By getting vaccinated with Shingrix after having shingles, you significantly reduce your risk of experiencing another painful episode and its potential complications.