Most people expect chickenpox to be a childhood memory, not something that returns later in life. Yet UK health data shows that around one in four people will go on to develop shingles because the varicella-zoster virus never fully leaves the body. As immunity weakens with age, the virus can reactivate and trigger a painful flare-up. This growing risk is what leads many adults to think seriously about the shingles vaccine and whether it can genuinely prevent the condition.
How does the shingles vaccine protect you from shingles?
The shingles vaccine trains your immune system to recognise and control the varicella-zoster virus before it can reactivate. It does not remove the virus from your body, but it strengthens your immune response so you are far less likely to develop shingles.
Who is most likely to benefit from the shingles vaccine?
Most adults are eligible, particularly those aged fifty and above. Your risk of shingles increases significantly with age, which is why the NHS and many private pharmacies recommend vaccination for older adults.
Can the vaccine stop the virus from reactivating?
The vaccine does not eliminate the virus. Instead, it helps your immune system stay prepared. This reduces the chance of the virus waking up and causing shingles.
How effective is the shingles vaccine at lowering your risk?
The shingles vaccine is known to offer a strong level of protection. Research shows that vaccinated adults are far less likely to develop shingles compared with those who are unvaccinated. Even if a vaccinated person does get shingles, the symptoms are usually milder and the risk of complications is much lower.
Does the vaccine reduce the pain and aftereffects?
Yes. One of the biggest benefits is reduced nerve pain, often called postherpetic neuralgia. This can last for months after the rash has healed. The vaccine lowers the likelihood of this happening.
How long does the protection last?
Protection is long-lasting. The immune response remains active for several years and helps keep the virus under control as you get older.
Are there any side effects from the shingles vaccine?
Most people tolerate the shingles vaccine well. Side effects are usually short-lived and mild. They show that your immune system is responding.
What are the common shingles vaccine side effects?
People often experience temporary symptoms such as:
- Soreness or redness where the injection was given
- Mild fever
- Tiredness
- Headache
These settle quickly without treatment.
Are serious reactions possible?
Serious reactions to the shingles vaccine are very rare. If you have concerns about allergies or previous reactions to vaccines, our pharmacists can advise you before you decide.
Why is the shingles vaccine recommended for adults?
The shingles vaccine for adults is advised because the risk of shingles and long-term nerve pain increases significantly with age. Having stronger immunity helps keep the virus inactive and reduces the burden of illness later in life.
Is shingles dangerous if not prevented?
Shingles itself can be extremely uncomfortable and can affect quality of life for several weeks. More importantly, the nerve pain can continue long after the rash disappears. Preventing shingles is often easier than managing the long-term impact.
How to prevent shingles with lifestyle habits?
Lifestyle habits can strengthen your immune system, which may help lower your risk, but they cannot fully prevent shingles on their own. Because the varicella-zoster virus remains in your body after childhood chickenpox, lifestyle changes work best alongside vaccination.
Maintaining good sleep, managing stress, staying active and eating a balanced diet can support your general health, while the shingles vaccine offers the most reliable protection against a future flare-up.
Where can you get support and shingles protection in the UK?
The shingles vaccine is available privately for adults who want protection sooner. If you are unsure whether it is suitable for you, our pharmacists can help you understand the benefits and what to expect.
Book your appointment with our experts at Touchwood Pharmacy for shingles vaccination and personalised travel and health advice.
FAQs
Does the shingles vaccine completely stop you from getting shingles?
The shingles vaccine does not guarantee full protection, but it significantly lowers your risk of developing shingles. If you do get it after vaccination, the symptoms are usually milder, and the chance of long-term nerve pain is much lower.
How long does it take for the shingles vaccine to start working?
Your immune system begins responding within a few days, but the strongest protection develops over the following weeks. Once this response is established, your risk of shingles remains reduced for several years.
Can you still get shingles if you had the chickenpox vaccine as a child?
Yes. Even those who had the chickenpox vaccine can still develop shingles later in life because the varicella-zoster virus can remain in the body. The shingles vaccine adds further protection by boosting your immunity as an adult.
Is the shingles vaccine worth having if I have already had shingles before?
Yes. You can still benefit from the vaccine even if you have previously had shingles. It reduces the chance of the virus reactivating again and lowers the risk of another painful episode.
Which shingles vaccine is used in the UK, and is it available privately?
The UK currently uses a non-live shingles vaccine for most adults. While eligibility through the NHS depends on your age, private pharmacies can offer the vaccine to adults who want earlier protection. Availability may vary, so it is helpful to check in advance.
How do I know if the shingles vaccine is suitable for me?
Most adults can safely receive the shingles vaccine, but some people may need personalised advice based on their health conditions or immune system. A consultation with our pharmacists can help confirm whether the vaccine is right for you and what to expect from the appointment.
