At What Age Should Your Patients Start Getting Shingrix to Prevent Shingles?

The Shingrix® vaccine is approved for ages 50 and older. Theoretical models suggest Shingrix’s effectiveness may wane after 20 years. Based on this, and the low prevalence rates of shingles and post-herpetic neuralgia for people in their 50s, our Clinical Practice Committee currently suggests age 55 as the best age to begin vaccination.

Since its approval by the Food and Drug Administration in October 2017, Shingrix has become the preferred vaccination to prevent post herpetic neuralgia and should be encouraged for patients who were vaccinated with Zostavax® more than five years ago. Be advised that Shingrix has a higher rate of local reactions than many vaccines. Patients should be told about the possibility of a local reaction, and acetaminophen and supportive care are recommended if one occurs.

Gregory Rosencrance, MD, Medicine Institute Chairman

Read more about the efficacy of the Shingrix vaccine here.