What does it do?

The shingles vaccine helps protect you against shingles. It also prevents or reduces ongoing pain from shingles.

Before you start

• Tell your health professional if you currently feel unwell or have a fever.
• Tell your health professional if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How is it given?

The shingles vaccine is given as an injection into a muscle. It is given to you by a health professional.

You will need to wait for 20 minutes after having your vaccine, to check you don’t have an allergic reaction.

What if you forget a dose?

Contact your health professional to rebook your appointment.

Can you take other medicines?

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products or recreational drugs.

What side effects might you notice?

Side Effects	Recommended action
Flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, aches and pains, nausea, headache, tiredness or weakness) Pain, tenderness or redness at injection site	This usually passes after a few days, take paracetamol if needed. Tell your health professional if troublesome.
Symptoms of allergy including: skin rash, itching, swelling, trouble breathing	Tell your health professional immediately

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.