The NHS has confirmed that a free double vaccination against shingles is now available for adults aged 65 to 80. Eligibility begins at age 65 for those who turned that age on or after September 1, 2023. Individuals who turned 65 before that date are eligible from age 70 up to their 80th birthday.
Who is eligible and when
According to the NHS, from September 1, 2023, people become eligible for the shingles vaccine when they turn 65. The vaccine is given in two doses, administered between six and 12 months apart. Those who turned 65 before September 1, 2023, will be eligible when they turn 70. Everyone aged 70 to 79 is eligible for the shingles vaccine, with the same two-dose schedule.
Eligibility continues until the individual's 80th birthday, but the second dose can be given up until their 81st birthday. This applies to both age groups, ensuring full coverage for those who may have missed their first dose.
How to get the vaccine
GP surgeries are expected to contact eligible patients to arrange appointments. However, the NHS advises that individuals who believe they are eligible but have not been contacted, or who have missed an appointment, should contact their GP surgery directly. The vaccine is free of charge for those who qualify.
Side effects from the shingles vaccine are typically mild and may include swelling at the injection site, headache, fatigue, or chills. These effects usually resolve within a few days.
About shingles and its symptoms
Shingles is a viral infection that causes a painful rash. According to NHS guidance, the rash usually appears a few days after the initial symptoms. In rare cases, shingles can cause pain without a rash. The rash typically appears on the chest and tummy, but it can occur anywhere on the body, including the face, eyes, and genitals. The rash appears as blotches on one side of the body only; a rash on both the left and right sides is unlikely to be shingles.
The NHS statement confirms: “From September 1, 2023, you're eligible for the shingles vaccine when you turn 65. You'll be offered 2 doses of the vaccine. These are given between 6 and 12 months apart.” It also notes that those who turned 65 before that date will be eligible when they turn 70. The full eligibility window extends until the 80th birthday, with the second dose allowed up to the 81st birthday.
