A: Shingrix is significantly more effective and offers longer-lasting protection than Zostavax. It is over 90% effective in preventing shingles and postherpetic neuralgia, the most common complication of shingles.
Shingrix Vaccination
Safeguard your health against shingles with Shingrix, available at Rock Ridge Pharmacy for individuals 50 years of age and older.
What is Shingles?
Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a painful rash caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus — the same virus that causes chickenpox. The rash typically appears as a single stripe of blisters that wraps around one side of the torso and can lead to severe pain and complications.
Why Choose Shingrix?
Effectiveness: Shingrix is over 90% effective at preventing shingles and the long-term pain of postherpetic neuralgia.
Recommendation: The CDC recommends two doses of Shingrix for all adults aged 50 and older, including those who have had shingles before or received Zostavax.
Vaccine Administration
Dosage: Two doses, administered two to six months apart.
Method: Injected into the muscle, typically the upper arm.
Potential Side Effects
- Common: Soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site, muscle pain, tiredness, headache, shivering, fever, and upset stomach.
- Severe: Rare severe allergic reactions. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience widespread rash, difficulty breathing, or facial swelling.
Precautions and Contraindications
- Allergies: Do not receive Shingrix if you are allergic to any vaccine components.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Limited data available; discuss with your healthcare provider.
When to Get Vaccinated?
- It's best to start the vaccination as soon as you become eligible to ensure the highest level of protection.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shingrix
Visit us at Rock Ridge Pharmacy to get your Shingrix vaccine. Our dedicated team is here to help you stay healthy and informed throughout the vaccination process.
A: Shingrix is not meant to treat active shingles or the pain associated with it. It is recommended to wait until the shingles rash has completely healed before getting vaccinated.
A: Individuals who have severe allergic reactions to any component of the vaccine or who are currently pregnant or breastfeeding should consult their healthcare provider before receiving Shingrix.
A: If the second dose is delayed, it should be administered as soon as possible. There is no need to restart the series.
A: Yes, by preventing shingles, Shingrix also reduces the risk of developing postherpetic neuralgia, a form of chronic nerve pain that can occur after a shingles infection.
A: Research shows that Shingrix provides strong protection against shingles for more than five years after you complete the two-dose series.
A: Yes, even if you don't recall having chickenpox, studies suggest that nearly all adults over 50 years of age have been exposed to the varicella-zoster virus and thus could benefit from the Shingrix vaccine.
A: No, Shingrix is a non-live vaccine that contains a virus component, specifically designed to boost your immune response without causing the disease.
A: Yes, if you've previously received Zostavax, it's recommended to get the Shingrix vaccine because it provides superior protection. It is advisable to wait at least 8 weeks after receiving Zostavax before getting Shingrix.
A: You should delay receiving Shingrix if you are currently pregnant, breastfeeding, or have an active, untreated tuberculosis infection. For any severe acute illness, it is recommended to wait until you have recovered.
A: There are no specific lifestyle or dietary restrictions following vaccination with Shingrix. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help your immune system function optimally.