Can you get the Shingrix (recombinant zoster vaccine) after having herpes zoster (shingles)?

Shingrix Vaccination After Shingles

Yes, you should absolutely get Shingrix after having shingles—vaccination is strongly recommended once your acute symptoms have resolved, typically waiting at least 2 months after the episode. 1

Why Vaccination Is Essential After Shingles

• Having shingles once does not provide reliable protection against future episodes, with a 10-year cumulative recurrence risk of 10.3% 1
• Natural immunity from a shingles episode is insufficient to prevent recurrence, making vaccination critical for long-term protection 1
• The recombinant zoster vaccine (Shingrix) demonstrates 70.1% effectiveness for the two-dose series in real-world studies, significantly reducing your risk of another painful episode 1

Recommended Timing After Your Shingles Episode

• Wait until acute symptoms have resolved before vaccination, with a practical interval of at least 2 months commonly recommended 1, 2
• The 2-month waiting period is based on documented evidence showing this is the minimum interval between an episode of herpes zoster and potential recurrence 2
• This interval allows for complete resolution of the acute phase, abatement of symptoms, and recovery of the immune system to optimize vaccine response 2

Vaccination Schedule

• Administer the first dose immediately once the 2-month waiting period has passed 1
• The second dose should be given 2-6 months after the first dose, with a minimum interval of 4 weeks 1
• Complete vaccination with both doses is strongly recommended for optimal protection 1

Important Clinical Considerations

• Do not delay vaccination beyond the 2-month minimum period, as waiting too long increases your risk of recurrence 2
• Shingrix is a non-live recombinant vaccine, making it safe for most patients, including those who are immunocompromised 1
• The vaccine maintains high efficacy (>90%) across all age groups 50 and older 1
• Protection persists for at least 8 years with minimal waning, maintaining efficacy above 83.3% during this period 1

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Do not confuse the waiting period after shingles (2 months) with the interval between vaccine doses (2-6 months) 2
• Never use the live-attenuated Zostavax vaccine—only Shingrix (RZV) is appropriate, especially if you have any immunocompromising conditions 1
• Do not assume that having had shingles means you don't need vaccination; the recurrence risk remains substantial without vaccination 2