Stay Informed: Shingles Vaccine
now $0 through most insurances
Neary 1 in 3 adults will develop Shingles in their lifetime. Shingles is a painful rash of blisters that typically scab over in 7-10 days. Shingrix™ vaccine is the only way to protect yourself from shingles and its most frequent complication, postherpetic neuralgia (PHN).
As of 2023, Shingrix™ is $0 through Medicare and most private insurances.
The CDC recommends the two-dose Shingrix™ vaccine for healthy adults 50 years and older.
What is shingles?
Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a painful skin rash caused by reactivation of the varicella zoster virus (the same virus that causes chickenpox). It can most commonly occur as a cluster of blisters on one side of your torso. Shingles may lead to long-term complications such as debilitating pain that lasts for months or even years. In rare cases, serious, long-term eye or hearing issues can occur.
Who is at risk for shingles?
If you’re one of the 99% of adults over 50 years old who have had chickenpox, the virus that causes shingles is inside your body and can reactivate at any time. The risk of getting shingles increases as a person gets older. No matter how healthy you feel, your immune system declines as you age, and that puts you at an increased risk for shingles.
What is Shingrix™?
Shingrix™ is a vaccine used to prevent the herpes zoster (shingles) virus. It is given as a 2-dose series, separated by 2-6 months. In clinical trials it was proven to be 90% effective in preventing shingles in adults 50 years and older.
Who should get Shingrix™?
- Any healthy adult over the age of 50
- Any adult with weakened immune systems because of disease or therapy
You should get Shingrix™ even if you
- Had shingles
- Received Zostavax (previous shingles vaccine)
- Received the varicella (chickenpox) vaccine
Where can I get Shingrix™?
All of our Big Y Pharmacy locations carry Shingrix™. Walk-ins are welcome, and you can even stop by the pharmacy during your weekly shopping trip. Or, click HERE and schedule your vaccine ahead online.
Is Shingrix™ covered by my insurance?
Yes, Shingrix™ is now $0 through most insurances. This includes Medicare Part D and 95% of private insurance plans.
If I already had a shingles vaccine should I still get Shingrix™?
If you have previously received a shingles vaccine, you may still need Shingrix™. Talk to our Big Y Pharmacy Team to see if you are up to date!
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