Shingles: questions and answers for healthcare professionals
The aim of the universal vaccination programme is to reduce the incidence and severity of shingles disease in older people.
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Shingles is a common disease that can cause long-lasting, severe pain. It can cause permanent disability, and it occurs more frequently in those over 70 years old, who are also more likely to have worse symptoms
It is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox – varicella zoster.
A universal routine herpes zoster (shingles) vaccination programme for adults aged over 70 years started in September 2013. The aim of the universal vaccination programme is to reduce the incidence and severity of shingles disease in older people.
Last updated 24 February 2016 + show all updates
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Amended document to reflect changes to the licensure of Zostavax and administration requirements.
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Updated shingles vaccine Q and A for healthcare professionals.
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The Shingles Q&A for healthcare professionals has been updated.
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Edits provided by Immunisation Hepatitis and Blood Safety team at PHE Colindale.
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Reformatted and branded version, with revisions to text following consultation.
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Additional questions and answers added.
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First published.