Shingles vaccine

Shingles vaccine

The varicella-zoster vaccine is currently given in two doses. The first dose is recommened at age 12 to 15 months and the second at 4 to 6 years. It is also approved as a single dose vaccine for adults over 60 yrs old. Since the approval and administration of the shingles starting in 1995, the rate of chickenpox has dramatically declined. According to the CDC, the vaccine reduces the risk of shingles by 50%. The shingles vaccine has an excellent safety profile. However, the shingles vaccine should not be given to individuals with weakened immune systems or those who are allergic to gelatin or neomycin antibiotic. There is a lingering concern that the vaccine may wear off during adulthood, thus leaving the immune system without adequate protection from the shingles virus.