Shingles Vaccination
Protect yourself and your loved ones from shingles with the Shingles vaccine, available at Cleckheaton Pharmacy. Our professional team provides a safe, effective, and convenient vaccination service.
What is Shingles?
Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus—the same virus responsible for chickenpox. After recovering from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the nervous system and can reactivate later in life, leading to shingles.
Shingles causes a painful rash that usually appears on one side of the body, often in a stripe. It can also lead to long-term nerve pain, known as postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), which can last for months or even years after the rash disappears
Symptoms of Shingles
Burning
tingling
Sensitivity to touch
Fever and headache
Fatigue
Itching and skin sensitivity
Note: In some cases, shingles can lead to complications, such as vision loss (if the rash appears near the eyes), hearing problems, or neurological issues.
Shingles Transmission & Prevention
Shingles itself cannot be transmitted from person to person, but the varicella-zoster virus can spread to someone who has never had chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccine. This can cause chickenpox but not shingles.
The virus spreads through:
- Direct contact with the fluid from shingles blisters
- Touching contaminated surfaces
- Pregnant women, newborns, and immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk of severe complications.
The Shingles vaccine is the most effective way to prevent shingles and its complications. The vaccine:
- Reduces the risk of shingles by over 90%
- Lowers the chances of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN)
- Provides long-lasting immunity
High-Risk Groups for Shingles
- People aged 50 and above
- Individuals with weakened immune systems (e.g., due to cancer, HIV, or long-term steroid use)
- Those who have had chickenpox in the past
- Anyone experiencing high levels of stress
Ready to Protect your Health?
Why Choose Us
At Cleckheaton Pharmacy, your health comes first! Our expert team is dedicated to providing advice and treatment tailored to your needs.
Effortless Service
Say goodbye to stress! Book your appointment online or visit at a time that works for you. We're here to accommodate your busy schedule.
The Outcome
Feel secure and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with safeguarding your health—make proactive choices leading to a lifetime of well-being.
Commonly Asked Questions
What are the side effects of the shingles vaccination?
The shingles vaccine can cause mild side effects, including redness, swelling, or pain at the injection site, as well as headache, fatigue, or muscle pain. Some people may experience fever or nausea, but serious reactions are rare.
Is there a downside to the shingles vaccine?
There are few downsides to the shingles vaccine. It does not provide absolute protection, but it significantly reduces the risk of developing shingles and its complications. Some people may experience temporary discomfort or side effects after 2- 3 days of vaccination, but the benefits outweigh the risks.
Who is eligible for the shingles vaccine NHS?
The NHS offers the shingles vaccine for free to adults aged 70 to 79 as part of a routine programme. It is also available to people aged 50 and over with weakened immune systems due to conditions like cancer or HIV. If eligible, you will usually receive an invitation from your GP.
How long does a shingles vaccine last?
The Shingrix vaccine, now commonly used in the UK, provides long-term protection, lasting at least 10 years. Older versions were effective for around five years but are no longer routinely used.
How much does the shingles vaccine cost in the UK?
For those eligible under the NHS, the vaccine is free. If obtained privately, it costs between £200 and £250 per dose, with a full course requiring two doses
How long after the shingles vaccine are you contagious?
The shingles vaccine itself does not make you contagious. The newer Shingrix vaccine does not contain a live virus, so there is no risk of spreading shingles. However, in rare cases, the older Zostavax vaccine could cause a mild rash, which should be kept covered to prevent potential transmission.
Where can you get the shingles vaccine in the UK?
The vaccine is available through GP surgeries for those eligible under the NHS. If you are not eligible, you can receive it privately at clinics or pharmacies such as The Cleckheaton Pharmacy.
