The shingles vaccine helps protect against shingles. It’s available on the NHS for all adults turning 65,
those aged 70 to 79, and those aged 18 and over with a severely weakened immune system. You will remain eligible until your 80th birthday.
If you turned 65 before 1st September 2023, you will be eligible for the shingles vaccine when you turn 70.
Shingles is a common condition that causes a painful rash. It can sometimes lead to serious problems such as long-lasting pain, hearing loss or blindness. You are more likely to get shingles, and it’s more likely to cause serious problems, as you get older or if you have a severely weakened immune system.
The shingles vaccine helps reduce your chances of getting shingles and reduce your chances of getting serious problems if you do get shingles. You will be offered 2 doses of the vaccine. These are given between 6 and 12 months apart.
You don’t need to contact the practice to arrange a shingles vaccination. Our admin team will invite you when you become eligible, normally during the month of your birth. If you think you’re eligible for the shingles vaccine and have not been contacted, please get in touch with the surgery.
Further information about the shingles vaccination can be found at www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/shingles-vaccine.
