Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus — the same virus that causes chickenpox.
The virus can cause a rash that develops around the torso, which can be quite painful for some people.
St Mary’s offers shingles vaccination clinics for patients aged between 70 and 80.
The shingles vaccine is given as an injection into the upper arm. Unlike the flu jab, you’ll only need to have the vaccination once and you can have it at any time of the year.
The shingles vaccine is expected to reduce your risk of getting shingles. If you do go on to have the disease, your symptoms may be milder and the illness shorter.
There are 2 shingles vaccines used in the UK:
- Zostavax, a live vaccine given as 1 dose
- Shingrix, a non-live vaccine given as 2 doses, 2 months apart
Most people will have the Zostavax vaccine. The Shingrix vaccine is recommended if Zostavax is not suitable for you, for example if you have a condition that affects your immune system.
Please download and complete the consent form before you attend your vaccination appointment.
Updated: 26.5.23