In the UK, the shingles vaccine is offered to protect against herpes zoster, which is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (the virus that causes chickenpox). Here's some key information:

Shingles Vaccine Types

The UK currently offers two vaccines to prevent shingles:

Zostavax: A live attenuated vaccine that has been widely used but is becoming less common due to the introduction of newer vaccines.

Shingrix: A newer, non-live recombinant vaccine. It has shown higher effectiveness and is preferred for people who are immunocompromised because it does not contain a live virus.

Eligibility

The shingles vaccine is routinely offered to people in their 70s as part of the NHS vaccination program.
People are eligible for the vaccine starting from age 70 up until they turn 80.
Individuals aged 50 and above who are immunocompromised (such as those receiving chemotherapy or living with conditions that weaken the immune system) can also be offered the Shingrix vaccine.

Timing

The vaccine can be given at any time of year, and patients only need a one-time dose (with Zostavax), or two doses (with Shingrix) given 2 to 6 months apart.

Effectiveness

Zostavax reduces the risk of developing shingles by about 50-60%.
Shingrix is over 90% effective at preventing shingles and its complications, including post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), a painful condition that can persist after the shingles rash heals.

Side Effects

Common side effects include redness, swelling, or soreness at the injection site.
Flu-like symptoms or mild fatigue can also occur but generally resolve within a few days.
Dr Geranmayeh