Can the shingles vaccine cause chills?

Shingles Vaccine and Chills

Yes, the shingles vaccine can cause chills as a side effect, which is typically a self-limited systemic reaction that resolves within a few days.

Common Side Effects of Shingles Vaccines

Systemic reactions, including chills, are well-documented side effects of vaccination, including the shingles vaccine. According to CDC guidelines, systemic side effects occur in approximately 10% of vaccinees 1. These reactions are generally mild to moderate in severity and self-limiting.

The systemic reactions commonly associated with shingles vaccination include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Myalgia (muscle pain)
• Chills
• Gastrointestinal symptoms

Timing and Duration

Systemic reactions like chills typically occur:

• Within 3-7 days after vaccination 2
• Usually last 1-2 days
• Are more common after the first dose than subsequent doses

Management of Chills and Other Systemic Reactions

For patients experiencing chills after shingles vaccination:

1. Reassure that this is a normal immune response
2. Recommend adequate hydration
3. Consider acetaminophen (15 mg/kg) every 4 hours for 24 hours to manage symptoms 2
4. Monitor for persistence beyond 24-48 hours, which may warrant further evaluation

Risk Factors for Increased Side Effects

Some individuals may be more likely to experience systemic reactions like chills:

• First-time vaccinees versus those receiving booster doses
• Younger adults compared to older adults
• Those with prior allergic tendencies

When to Seek Medical Attention

Patients should seek medical attention if:

• Chills persist for more than 48 hours
• High fever (≥105°F/40.5°C) develops within 48 hours 2
• Signs of severe allergic reaction occur (though these are extremely rare)

Clinical Perspective

The occurrence of chills after shingles vaccination represents a normal immune response rather than a concerning adverse event. The benefits of shingles vaccination in preventing herpes zoster and its complications (particularly postherpetic neuralgia) significantly outweigh the temporary discomfort of side effects like chills.

Research has shown that the shingles vaccine reduces the incidence of herpes zoster by approximately 50-70% 3, making it an important preventive measure despite the potential for mild systemic reactions like chills.

Important Considerations

• Distinguish between expected mild-to-moderate systemic reactions and more serious adverse events
• Document any significant adverse events in the patient's medical record
• Report unusual or severe reactions to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS)
• Provide anticipatory guidance to patients about the possibility of chills and other systemic reactions before vaccination