The shingles vaccine helps protect against shingles. It’s recommended for people at higher risk from shingles, including: all adults turning 65, those aged 70 to 79, and those aged 50 and over with a severely weakened immune system.
What is the shingles vaccine for?
Shingles is a common condition that causes a painful rash. It can sometimes lead to serious problems such as long-lasting pain, hearing loss or blindness.
You’re more likely to get shingles, and it’s more likely to cause serious problems, as you get older or if you have a severely weakened immune system.
The shingles vaccine helps:
- reduce your chances of getting shingles
- reduce your chances of getting serious problems if you do get shingles
Who should have the shingles vaccine?
The shingles vaccine is recommended for some older adults and people with a severely weakened immune system.
Important
You can get shingles more than once, so it’s important to get vaccinated even if you’ve had shingles before.
From 1 September 2024, you’re eligible for the shingles vaccine when you turn 65.
You’ll be offered 2 doses of the vaccine. These are given between 6 and 12 months apart.
Your GP should contact you to make an appointment to have your shingles vaccine. Contact your GP surgery if you think you’re eligible for the shingles vaccine and you’ve not been contacted about it.
You’ll remain eligible until your 80th birthday.
If you turned 65 before 1 September 2024, you’ll be eligible for the shingles vaccine when you turn 70.