Shingles vaccine 

Shingles Vaccine – Shingrix® (NIP-funded)

The shingles vaccine Shingrix® is now included on the National Immunisation Program (NIP) and replaces Zostavax® for the prevention of shingles and its complications. It is funded free of charge for eligible people under the NIP.

 

Who Can Get Shingrix® for Free

A 2-dose course of Shingrix® is provided at no cost under the NIP for:

• People aged 65 years and over

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 years and over

• Immunocompromised people aged 18 years and over with certain medical conditions, including:

  • haemopoietic stem cell transplant

  • solid organ transplant

  • haematological malignancy

  • advanced or untreated HIV

Shingrix® is not a live vaccine, so it can also be safely given to people aged 18 years and older who are immunocompromised.

 

About the Vaccine

A complete course requires two doses.
For most people, doses are given 2 to 6 months apart.
For some immunocompromised patients, a shorter interval (1–2 months) may be recommended.
Shingrix® provides stronger and longer-lasting protection against shingles and post-herpetic neuralgia than the previous Zostavax® vaccine.

 

Important Notes

Even if you have previously received Zostavax®, you may still be eligible for Shingrix®, depending on timing and eligibility criteria.
While the vaccine is free under the NIP for eligible groups, a consultation or administration fee may apply.
If you are not eligible under the NIP, Shingrix® can still be accessed via private prescription.

 

Booking an Appointment

Please call reception to book an appointment with the practice nurse for your shingles vaccination.