Shingles
A painful rash caused by reactivation of the chickenpox virus. Recommended for adults 50 and over as part of routine care, not specifically for travel.
What it is
Shingles is a painful rash caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a chickenpox infection, the virus stays dormant in nerves and can wake up years later, usually as you age.
How it spreads
Shingles itself is not spread person-to-person, but the fluid in shingles blisters can cause chickenpox in someone who has never had it or been vaccinated.
Dosing & timing
- Primary series
- Two doses of Shingrix, 2 to 6 months apart.
- Boosters
- No boosters needed — protection stays high for at least 7 years.
- Before you travel
- Not travel-dependent. Adults 19 and over with weakened immune systems can use a faster schedule with the second dose 1 to 2 months after the first.
Who should consider it
This is a routine adult vaccine, not a travel one. CDC recommends Shingrix for adults aged 50 and over, and for adults aged 19 and over with weakened immune systems. Most travellers in this age group should already be on the schedule regardless of trip plans.
Side effects and safety
Common (most resolve in a day or two)
- Soreness or redness where the shot was given
- Muscle aches
- Tiredness
- Headache or mild fever for a day or two
Serious but rare
- Severe allergic reaction (very rare)
Who should not get it
Skip it if you have had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or any ingredient. Talk to your doctor if you currently have shingles or are pregnant.
Common questions
I had the older shingles vaccine years ago — do I need Shingrix?
Yes. CDC recommends Shingrix even if you had the older vaccine, because it offers stronger and longer protection.
Can I get shingles if I never had chickenpox?
Almost never. Shingles only occurs in people who carry the chickenpox virus from a previous infection or older live vaccine.
Does travel increase my shingles risk?
Not directly, but stress and being run down can trigger an episode. If you are due for the vaccine, getting it before a long trip is sensible.
Plan ahead: Talk to your usual doctor about Shingrix as part of routine adult care — it is not specifically a travel vaccine.
Source: CDC — Shingles.
Disclaimer:This information is for general guidance only, based on CDC Travelers' Health. It does not replace advice from a qualified travel health professional. Consult a doctor 4–6 weeks before your trip.