Did you know that there’s a new shot to prevent shingles? Released to the public in 2017, Shingrix, a newer two-step vaccine aimed at people aged 50 and over to protect them from the Shingles. Having more options for the vaccine is exciting, since it could be difficult to find and schedule both doses of the older vaccine within the six-month window.
What is Shingles?
- Per the May Clinic, Shingles is a viral infection that causes a painful rash. Although shingles can occur anywhere on your body, it most often appears as a single stripe of blisters that wraps around either the left or the right side of your torso.
- While it isn’t fatal, Shingles can be extremely painful!
Why is this important?
The chances of contracting Shingles are huge; 1 in 3 adults in the US will get Shingles. Shingles is closely related to the Chicken Pox virus. After having Chicken Pox or the Chicken Pox vaccine, the virus stays dormant in your nerve tissues and could potentially become Shingles in the future. You can also contract Shingles if you haven’t had Chicken Pox. Age is another risk factor for Shingles since our immune systems naturally weaken as we age.
What if I already had the older vaccine or had shingles?
- The vaccine reduces the risk of Shingles so you can take this vaccine even if you’ve had a vaccine or outburst in the past.
Where can I find the vaccine?
- Click here to find a provider near you.
- The vaccine is made up of two separate shots given 2-6 months apart. You can sign up for a second dose reminder here.
How much does it cost?
- The Shingles vaccine is covered by most private insurance. The average cost is $5 per dose.
- The vaccine is also covered by Medicare Part D. The average cost is under $50 per dose.
- No coverage? The vaccine ranges from $155-$210 per dose depending on the pharmacy. Visit GoodRx for more information.
Make sure to talk with your doctor if you have any questions about being vaccinated against Shingles.
