Shingles is a painful blistering rash caused by reactivation of the varicella zoster virus – the same virus that causes chickenpox. A single dose of shingles vaccine is recommended and funded for adults at 70 years of age.
 

Extended catch-up to 31 October 2023

The Australian Government Department of Health has extended the shingles vaccination catch-up program available under the National Immunisation Program for people aged 71 to 79 years for a further two years to 31 October 2023.
 

C​ontraindications to shingles vaccination

Certain people may be unable to have the vaccine, particularly those who have a very weakened immune system. Please speak with your GP for advice.

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More information is available:
The current  Immunisation Authority for Registered Nurses and Midwives does not include herpes zoster (shingles) vaccine. Authorised Nurse Immunisers must not independently initiate and administer herpes zoster vaccine (Zostavax) without medical authorisation. ​​​​​​​​​​​​​
Current as at: Wednesday 2 March 2022
Contact page owner: Immunisation