What is RZV?
The Zoster Recombinant (RZV) vaccine offers protection against shingles, a painful skin rash caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus.
Who should get vaccinated?
CDC recommends two doses of recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV, Shingrix) to prevent shingles and related complications in adults 50 years and older. Shingrix is also recommended for adults 19 years and older who have weakened immune systems because of disease or therapy.
- Adults 50 years and older should get two doses of Shingrix, separated by 2 to 6 months.
- Adults 19 years and older who have or will have weakened immune systems because of disease or therapy should also get two doses of Shingrix. If needed, people with weakened immune systems can get the second dose 1 to 2 months after the first.
Why should you get this vaccination?
Shingles is caused by varicella zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus stays dormant (inactive) in the body. This virus can reactivate years later, causing shingles.
- About 1 out of every 3 people in the United States will develop shingles, also known as herpes zoster, in their lifetime.
- An estimated 1 million people get shingles each year in this country.
- If you’ve ever had chickenpox, you can get shingles. Even children can get shingles.
- Your risk of shingles increases as you get older.
The vaccine also helps to prevent nerve pain that can follow shingles.
- There is no maximum age for getting Shingrix.
- If you had shingles in the past, Shingrix can help prevent future occurrences of the disease.
- There is no specific length of time that you need to wait after having shingles before you can receive Shingrix, but generally you should make sure the shingles rash has gone away before getting vaccinated.
Where can you get it?
If your doctor does not have these vaccines for adults, ask for a referral. These vaccines may also be available for adults at pharmacies.
More information:
Learn more about RZV here.