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Shingles vaccine - About the shingles vaccine

The shingles vaccine will reduce your chances of developing shingles and the long-term painful side effects, including post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN). If you do get shingles, it will probably be a milder and shorter illness if you have had the vaccine. 

What is the shingles vaccine? 

The shingles vaccine is called Shingrix. It is normally given as an injection into the muscle of the upper arm. 

Shingrix is not a live vaccine, which means it does not contain any live virus. If you would like to learn more about the vaccine, you can read the following patient information leaflet on the EMC website (external site). 

If you’re eligible, you can get the vaccine at any time of year. The next time you speak to a healthcare professional, ask them about the shingles vaccine.   

How many doses will I need? 

You will need two doses.  

  • If you have a very weakened immune system, you should have the second dose at least eight weeks after your first dose.  
  • If you do not have a very weakened immune system, you should have the second dose at least six to 12 months after your first dose.  

Once you have had both doses, you do not need any more shingles vaccines.  

If you have any questions or concerns or need more information about the shingles vaccine, speak to your GP or practice nurse.   

How will I get the vaccine?   

Your GP surgery should get in touch with you to make an appointment when you are eligible.   

If they don’t, or you think you might have missed the invitation, contact them and tell them you think you are due for a shingles vaccine.   

Do I need to have the vaccine every year? 

No, once you have had both doses, you do not need any more shingles vaccines.  

Does the shingles vaccine contain pork gelatine? 

While gelatine is used in a variety of foods and medicines, including some vaccines, the shingles vaccine currently used in the UK (Shingrix) does not contain pork gelatine.  

Page last reviewed: 23rd April 2025