Based on the recommendation from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), those that can get the shingles vaccine is being expanded to younger age groups so individuals, particularly those with a weakened immune system, can be protected at an earlier age to prevent more shingles cases. It means hundreds of thousands more people will be able to get protected against shingles each year. The vaccine that is used in the programme is also changing.
From 1 September 2023:
•those aged 70-79 will still be able to get the shingles vaccine from their GP practice. They will either be offered one dose of Zostavax or two doses of Shingrix (6 to 12 months apart)
•all those aged 50 and over with a weakened immune system will be offered two doses of the Shingrix vaccine by their GP practice (8 weeks to 6 months apart).
•those turning 65 and 70 will be offered two doses of the Shingrix vaccine (6 to 12 months apart) by their GP practice as they become eligible (eligibility will go down to 60 years old in September 2028)
We are currently running shingles vaccination clinics at the surgery. If you are eligible on the current vaccination programme you will receive a letter in the next few days asking you too book an appointment. If you fall into any of the new groups of patients eligible from September, you will be contacted in the autumn.
Thank you.