Shingles (herpes zoster) is caused by the reactivation of the virus that causes chickenpox, usually in adulthood and many years after the initial chickenpox illness.

A single dose of shingles vaccine is recommended and funded for adults at 70 years of age. Adults 71-79 years of age are also eligible under a five-year catch up program until 31 October 2021.

For further information on the adult shingles vaccination program see the Adult Immunisation page.

For further information on shingles please see the factsheet or contact your local public health unit on 1300 066 055.​​​