From the Research
If you've had shingles, you should wait until the shingles rash has completely healed before getting the shingles vaccine (Shingrix), which typically means waiting about 2-4 weeks after your shingles symptoms have resolved, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to ensure your immune system has recovered from the active infection and can respond appropriately to the vaccine 1. The waiting period is crucial to ensure the vaccine's effectiveness in preventing future episodes of shingles and its complications, such as postherpetic neuralgia.
- The recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV), Shingrix, is administered as a two-dose series, with the second dose given 2-6 months after the first dose 1.
- The vaccine is over 90% effective at preventing shingles and its complications, with a significant reduction in the incidence of postherpetic neuralgia 2.
- Studies have shown that the vaccine is effective in preventing shingles in older adults, with a moderate certainty of evidence, and is probably effective in preventing shingles disease for at least three years 2.
- Real-world effectiveness studies have demonstrated the benefit of completing the 2-dose regimen, with a vaccine effectiveness of 70.1% for 2 doses and 56.9% for 1 dose, and the vaccine was also effective among individuals with autoimmune conditions and immunosuppressive conditions 3.
- It is essential to consult with your healthcare provider to evaluate your specific situation and provide personalized guidance on the timing of the vaccine, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking immunosuppressive medications.