As we grow older, our risk of certain infections increases. One such condition is shingles, a painful rash caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus. While many think it is just an itchy skin problem, shingles can sometimes lead to serious issues like nerve pain, hearing loss or even problems with vision. That is why the shingles vaccine is now offered to many older adults in the UK.
But is it really worth getting the jab after 50? Let us break it down in simple terms.
What Is Shingles and Who Is at Risk?
Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. After you recover from chickenpox, the virus stays in your body and can reactivate later in life as shingles. It causes a painful rash, often on one side of the body, and can last for weeks.
Older adults and people with a weak immune system are more likely to get shingles, and they are also more likely to have serious side effects. That is why the shingles vaccine is recommended for:
- People turning 65 on or after 1 September 2023
- People aged 70 to 79
- Adults aged 50 and over with a severely weakened immune system
Even if you have had shingles before, you can get it again. So the vaccine is still important.
What Are the Shingles Vaccine Benefits?
The shingles vaccine helps in two key ways:
- It reduces your chances of getting shingles at all.
- If you do get shingles, it lowers your risk of having serious problems like long-term nerve pain.
In short, it gives your immune system a boost so it is better prepared to fight off the virus before it causes trouble.
Shingles Vaccine Effectiveness Over 50
There are basically two shingles vaccines in the UK: Shingrix and Zostavax. When comparing Shingrix vs Zostavax, studies show that Shingrix provides stronger and longer-lasting protection, especially in older adults.
Shingrix is a non-live vaccine, which means it is suitable even for people with weaker immune systems.
Shingrix is around 90 percent effective in preventing shingles in people aged 50 and above. Its protection also lasts for several years. That makes it a reliable option if you want to avoid the pain and complications that come with the illness.
Even if you are generally healthy, getting shingles can knock you down for weeks. The vaccine helps you stay active, pain-free and worry-free in your older years.
What Are the Shingles Vaccine Side Effects?
Most side effects of the vaccine are mild and short-lived. You might feel:
- A sore or swollen arm where the injection was given
- A headache or a bit of tiredness
- Aching muscles or joints
- A mild fever or shivering
These usually go away in 2 to 3 days and are much milder than the illness the vaccine protects you from. Severe allergic reactions are very rare, and our pharmacists are trained to handle them if needed.
Protect Yourself with Confidence
Want to avoid the pain of shingles and protect your health as you age? If you are over 50, getting the shingles vaccine is one of the smartest health decisions you can make. Book your appointment with our experts at Touchwood Pharmacy for the shingles vaccine today. We offer professional guidance, quick bookings and trusted service. Stay safe and take the next step towards better health now.
