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Shingles Vaccine – Everything you need to know

Anyone who gets shingles has had a case of chickenpox first, often decades earlier. These two conditions come from the same virus, called varicella zoster.



Chickenpox causes itchy blisters that might start on your back, chest, and face and spread to the rest of your body. Shingles is a rash with shooting pain. It usually shows up on one side of your body. The rash turns into red, fluid-filled blisters. They usually dry out and crust over within 7 to 10 days.


Who should get the Shingles vaccine?

  • Are 50 or older

  • Are under a lot of stress

  • Have cancer, HIV, or another disease that lowers your body’s defenses

  • Have had a serious physical injury

  • Take long-term steroids or other medicines that can weaken your immune system


How long does a shingles vaccine last, and what does it cost?

The shingles vaccine lasts 5 years. Its cost is dependent on your insurance. The approximate cost of this vaccine can run anywhere between free and $200. Take you time and call different pharmacies and your doctors office to see where you can get the best deal.


Is it safe to get the shingles vaccine?

The short answer is yes! The shingles vaccine is very safe and has very few reported side effects. Always make sure to talk to your primary care physician before getting any vaccinations.

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