Protect Yourself from Shingles and Its Complications
Shingles (herpes zoster) is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus — the same virus that causes chickenpox. After chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in nerve tissue and may reactivate later in life.
The disease typically starts with tingling, itching, or pain in one area of the skin, often days before any rash appears. A strip of blisters then develops — usually on one side of the body, face, or trunk — taking 2 to 4 weeks to heal.
While most people recover, shingles can cause serious complications:
- Post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN): ongoing nerve pain after the rash heals. In people over age 50, up to 20% may develop PHN.
- Skin scarring, vision or hearing loss (especially if shingles affects the eye or ear)
- Increased stroke risk in the first year following shingles onset
As we age, our immune systems naturally weaken, increasing our risk of shingles.
Vaccination is currently the best way to prevent shingles or reduce its severity if it does occur.
In Ireland, the Shingrix vaccine is the preferred option. It’s a recombinant (non-live), adjuvanted vaccine that gives strong protection.
Clinical studies and guidelines in Ireland report efficacy at 4 months after full vaccination (two doses) as:
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Ages 50–69: ~97%
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Ages 70–79: ~91%
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Ages 80+: ~89%
Even if you’ve had shingles before, vaccination can help reduce recurrence and lessen severity.
At [Your Pharmacy], we follow Irish guidelines:
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All adults aged 50 and over are eligible for Shingrix vaccination.
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Adults aged 18–49 with weakened immune systems (due to disease or treatment) may also qualify.
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The vaccine can be given even if:
• You already had shingles (ideally wait ~12 months post-episode)
• You received the earlier Zostavax vaccine (Shingrix is preferred now)
• You don’t recall having chickenpox — prior lab testing is not required
| Step | What Happens | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1st dose | Intramuscular injection (usually in the upper arm) | Your pharmacist will assess you and administer the shot |
| Interval | 2 to 6 months between doses | The standard is ~2 months; flexibility allowed up to 6 months |
| 2nd dose | Final injection | After the second dose, full protection begins to develop |
| Observation period | Remain in pharmacy for 15 minutes | In case of rare immediate reactions |
We will help you schedule the second appointment before you leave, making it easier to complete the course.
You might experience mild-to-moderate side effects, which are signs that your immune system is responding. Typical side effects include:
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Pain, redness, swelling at the injection site
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Muscle aches, fatigue, headache, mild fever
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Rare: swollen glands, joint pain, itching
These effects usually resolve in 1–3 days. You may use over-the-counter analgesics (like paracetamol or ibuprofen) unless contraindicated. Consult your pharmacist if unsure.
If you notice signs of a severe allergic reaction (hives, swelling of face or throat, difficulty breathing, dizziness) — seek medical attention immediately.
Yes — Shingrix can be given concurrently with inactivated influenza, pneumococcal, or COVID-19 mRNA vaccines (at different injection sites).
The vaccine has shown strong protection for 4 years in trials. Ongoing studies are assessing longer durations.
You can delay up to 6 months. If beyond that, check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Shingrix (non-live) is considered safer for many people with compromised immune systems; however, assessments are needed case by case.
Shingles vaccination is not recommended during pregnancy. Breastfeeding should be discussed with a healthcare professional.