Overview

Shingrix is a vaccine for the prevention of herpes zoster (shingles) in adults aged 50 years and older. It is a two-shot series and delivers over 90% efficacy against shingles in those 50 years and older. The CDC recommends Shingrix over the Zostavax vaccine for the prevention of herpes zoster and related complications. A person who has previously received the Zostavax vaccine will likely benefit from receiving the Shingrix vaccine if it has been at least 2 months since Zostavax has been administered.

Shingles, or herpes zoster, is a painful skin rash. It is caused by the same virus that causes chicken pox. Studies show that more than 99% of Americans aged 40 and older have had chickenpox, even if they don’t remember getting the disease. The virus remains in the body in an inactive state. As a person gets older and their immune system weakens, the virus can reactivate as shingles, even if a person is healthy and active. Shingles is most common in persons 50 years and older. It is possible to get shingles more than once. Even if you have had shingles, you can still receive shingles vaccine to help prevent future occurrences of the disease.

For more information, and to make an appointment, call the Housatonic Valley Health District Department at 203-264-9616.

Quick Links

• What Everyone Should Know about the Shingles Vaccine (Shingrix)
• Recombinant Zoster (Shingles) Vaccine: What You Need to Know

Updated: September 26, 2023