Both chickenpox and shingles are caused by the varicella-zoster virus. After a person has chickenpox, the virus does not fully leave the body. Instead, it remains inactive in the nerve cells and can reactivate years later as shingles.
- Risk of shingles:
- About 1 in 3 people who have had chickenpox will develop shingles during their lifetime. The risk increases with age and with conditions that weaken the immune system.
- Why vaccination matters:
- Shingles can cause long-lasting pain, vision or hearing problems (if the face is affected), or other serious complications.
- Vaccination greatly reduces the risk of both shingles and postherpetic neuralgia.
- Vaccine recommendations:
- All adults age 50 and older are recommended to receive the shingles vaccine.
- The vaccine is given as a two-dose series, with doses typically spaced 2 to 6 months apart.
- Once the two-dose series is completed, protection is considered long-term, often lifetime immunity.
- The vaccine is also recommended for adults 19 and older with weakened immune systems due to disease or treatment.
To Get Vaccinated – Walk Right In!
No appointments necessary.
We accept WALK-INS until one hour before closing.
Save time by filling out our INTAKE FORM in advance, then bring it with you when you come in.
