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Vaccinations

Shingles vaccine

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The shingles vaccine is used to reduce your chances of getting shingles and of getting serious problems if you do get shingles.

The shingles vaccine is recommended for some older adults (including everyone aged 70 to 79) and some people with a severely weakened immune system.

Most people can have the shingles vaccine. You only need to avoid it if you've had a serious allergic reaction to the vaccine, or an ingredient in it.

You can check the ingredients in the shingles vaccine by asking to see the patient leaflet or searching for it online.

Your GP surgery will usually contact you when you become eligible for the shingles vaccine.

Common side effects of the shingles vaccine include swelling or pain where the injection was given. Serious side effects are very rare.

Page last reviewed: 01/09/2023
Next review due: 01/09/2026