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Shingles Vaccination

Shingles is caused by the same virus as chickenpox - Herpes Zoster virus (varicella-zoster virus). Once you contract the virus it can remain dormant and become active again later in life, developing into shingles. At The Private Pharmacy Clinic we can discuss with you the Shingles Vaccine and guide you in the right direction when travelling abroad.

Shingles Vaccination

£225 - £450

Dependent on vaccine used (Zostavax or Shingrix)

Book Now

(Subject to availability, T&C's, discounts and offers)

🦠 What is Shingles?

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) - the same virus that causes chickenpox. After recovering from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in nerve cells and can reactivate years later, causing shingles.

🩺 Signs and Symptoms

  • Pain and tingling in affected area
  • Rash with fluid-filled blisters
  • Fever and general malaise
  • Headache
  • Burning or shooting pain
  • Itching and sensitivity

👥 Who's at Risk?

  • Adults aged over 50
  • People with weakened immune systems
  • Those who have had chickenpox
  • Individuals under stress or illness
  • Cancer treatment patients
  • Organ transplant recipients

Vaccination Schedule - Zostavax

Age Dose Required Schedule Boost Required At
50 and over 1 Single dose N/A

Zostavax: Live attenuated vaccine, single dose - £225

Vaccination Schedule - Shingrix

Age Dose Required Schedule Boost Required At
50 and over OR 18-50 at increased risk 2 At least 2 months apart N/A

Shingrix: Recombinant vaccine, two-dose series - £450 (for both doses)
Recommended for immunocompromised individuals and those 18-50 at increased risk

📋 Detailed Symptoms

Typical progression of shingles:

  • Before rash: Pain, tingling, burning sensation in specific area
  • Rash appearance: Red, painful rash on one side of body or face
  • Blistering: Fluid-filled blisters that break open and crust over
  • Additional symptoms: Fever, headache, fatigue, sensitivity to light
  • Duration: Typically lasts 2-4 weeks

⚠️ The rash usually appears along a specific nerve pathway (dermatome).

⚕️ Postherpetic Neuralgia (PHN)

Most common complication of shingles:

  • Persistent nerve pain after rash heals
  • Can last months or even years
  • More common in older adults
  • Pain can be severe and debilitating
  • Risk increases with age
  • Vaccination reduces PHN risk by 67%

⚠️ How It Spreads

Transmission details:

  • Direct contact with fluid-filled blisters
  • Can cause chickenpox in unvaccinated individuals
  • Cannot give someone else shingles directly
  • Contagious until blisters crust over
  • Less common: airborne transmission
  • Not contagious before rash appears

🎯 High-Risk Populations

Older Adults (50+): Risk increases significantly with age. The immune system weakens, allowing the dormant virus to reactivate.

Weakened Immune Systems: HIV/AIDS, cancer treatment, immunosuppressive medications, or organ transplants increase risk.

Previous Chickenpox: Anyone who has had chickenpox can develop shingles. The virus remains dormant in nerve cells.

Stress & Illness: Physical or emotional stress, as well as certain illnesses, can trigger virus reactivation.

Gender: Women are slightly more likely to develop shingles than men.

Chronic Conditions: Diabetes, COPD, and other chronic diseases may increase susceptibility.

💉 Zostavax vs. Shingrix

Zostavax

  • Live attenuated vaccine
  • Single dose (£225)
  • For ages 50 and older
  • Reduces shingles risk by 51%
  • Cannot be used in immunocompromised
  • Protection wanes over time

Shingrix

  • Recombinant (non-live) vaccine
  • Two doses, 2-6 months apart (£450 total)
  • For ages 50+ OR 18-50 at increased risk
  • Reduces shingles risk by over 90%
  • Can be used in immunocompromised
  • Longer-lasting protection

🚨 Potential Complications

Shingles can lead to serious complications:

⚠️ Seek immediate medical attention if shingles affects the eye or face, or if you have a weakened immune system.

🛡️ Prevention

  • Vaccination: Most effective prevention method
  • Shingrix preferred for ages 50+
  • Get vaccinated even if you've had shingles before
  • Maintain a healthy immune system
  • Manage stress levels
  • Avoid contact with active shingles rash

💊 Treatment Options

  • Antiviral medications: Acyclovir, valacyclovir, famciclovir
  • Pain relievers: Over-the-counter or prescription
  • Topical treatments: Calamine lotion, cool compresses
  • Early treatment: Start within 72 hours of rash
  • Corticosteroids in some cases
  • Treatment reduces severity and duration

📞 When to Seek Help

Contact healthcare provider if:

  • Rash appears on face or near eyes
  • Severe pain or widespread rash
  • Age 60 or older
  • Weakened immune system
  • Pregnant
  • Symptoms worsen or don't improve

📌 Important Information

Key facts about shingles and vaccination:

Protect Yourself from Shingles

Get vaccinated to reduce your risk of shingles and its complications. Book your consultation today.

Book Your Appointment