We are excited to announce that at 501 Pharmacy we will be able to administer the new shingles vaccine, Shingrix, very soon.  Keep reading to learn more and to sign up for our waiting list.

What Is Shingles?

Shingles (herpes zoster) is a painful infection of an individual nerve and the skin surface that is supplied by the nerve. It is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox, the varicella-zoster virus. Only those who have had chickenpox can have shingles.

A shingles episode usually lasts two to four weeks and the symptoms vary from person to person. Most people will experience a painful rash or blister on one side of the face or body. Other symptoms include fever, headache, nausea, muscle pain, chills, upset stomach, and fatigue.

Protect Yourself With Shingrix

The shingles vaccination is the only way to protect against shingles. Two doses of Shingrix is more than 90% effective and protection stays above 85% effective for at least four years after you get vaccinated according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The CDC recommends that healthy adults 50 years and older get two doses of Shingrix, separated by two to six months, to prevent shingles. You should get the vaccine even if you have had shingles before or if you cannot remember if you had chickenpox. There is no maximum age for getting the vaccine.

You should not get the vaccine if you currently have shingles or are pregnant or breastfeeding. Women should not become pregnant until at least four weeks after getting the vaccine. You should not get the vaccine if you are allergic to any component of the vaccine. You may get vaccinated if you have a cold or a type of acute illness, however, if your illness is more severe, you should wait until you are feeling better.

For more information on Shingrix visit CDC.gov.

Shingrix Is Covered by Most Insurance Companies

Ready to get the vaccine? Fill out our form below to be added to our waiting list. We will contact you when the vaccine is available.