You need the shingles vaccine once, then a booster shot 2 to 6 months later
The current shingles vaccine is Shingrix, and it comes in two doses. You get the first shot, wait between 2 and 6 months, then get the second shot. After you complete both doses, you are done — you do not need boosters every year or every few years the way you do with flu shots.
This two-dose schedule is different from the older shingles vaccine, Zostavax, which was a single shot. If you received Zostavax in the past, you should still get the two-dose Shingrix series, even if it has been years since your first vaccine. Your doctor can tell you how long to wait after Zostavax before starting Shingrix.
The timing between your two Shingrix doses matters for how well the vaccine works. If you space them too close together — less than 28 days apart — the second dose may not work as well. If you space them too far apart — more than 6 months — you may need to start the series over. Most people schedule their second dose around 3 months after the first to stay safely in the middle of that window.
Key Takeaways
- Shingrix requires two doses given 2 to 6 months apart, with no boosters needed after that.
- If you had the older Zostavax vaccine years ago, you still need the full two-dose Shingrix series.
- Spacing your doses less than 28 days apart or more than 6 months apart reduces how well the vaccine protects you.
- Most people schedule their second dose around 3 months after the first to stay in the recommended window.
- Your doctor or pharmacist can tell you when to come back for your second dose and whether you need to wait after any other vaccines.
Why Shingrix is given in two doses instead of one
Shingrix is a recombinant vaccine, meaning it is made from a piece of the virus rather than a weakened or inactive whole virus. This type of vaccine triggers a stronger immune response, but it needs two doses to build that protection fully. The first dose primes your immune system, and the second dose strengthens and locks in that protection.
Studies show that two doses of Shingrix prevent shingles in about 90 percent of people who receive both shots. One dose alone does not provide that level of protection. That is why both doses matter, even though it takes longer than a single-shot vaccine would.
What happens if you miss your second dose or space them wrong
If you miss your second dose appointment, you can still get it later — there is no deadline after which you have to start over. However, the longer you wait past 6 months, the less effective the first dose remains on its own. If more than 6 months pass, some doctors recommend restarting the series, though this varies by provider and by what your medical records show.
If you get your second dose too soon — less than 28 days after the first — the CDC says you may need a third dose at least 2 months later to make sure you have full protection. This is uncommon, but it can happen if you schedule doses too close together by mistake. Your pharmacist or doctor's office should catch this before your appointment, but it is worth double-checking when you book.
If you space your doses between 28 days and 6 months apart, you are in the safe zone and do not need any extra doses.
Who should get Shingrix and when
The CDC recommends Shingrix for all adults age 50 and older, whether or not they remember having chickenpox or shingles. If you are younger than 50 but have a weakened immune system — from HIV, cancer treatment, an organ transplant, or certain medications — your doctor may recommend it earlier.
You can get Shingrix at any time of year. You do not need to wait for a specific season or avoid it during cold and flu season. You can also receive Shingrix at the same visit as other vaccines, though your doctor may give them in different arms.
Shingrix after Zostavax: timing and what you need to know
If you received Zostavax (the older single-dose shingles vaccine) in the past, you should still get Shingrix. The newer vaccine offers much stronger protection. The CDC recommends waiting at least 12 months after Zostavax before starting Shingrix, though some doctors may recommend waiting longer depending on your health.
You do not need any special test or proof that you had Zostavax to get Shingrix. Just tell your doctor or pharmacist when you received it, and they can calculate when you are may be able to access to start the new series. If you do not remember exactly when you had Zostavax, your doctor can look it up in your medical records or vaccination history.
Where to get Shingrix and what to bring
You can get Shingrix at your primary care doctor's office, a pharmacy (including chain pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens), a health department clinic, or a travel clinic. Most insurance plans cover Shingrix for adults 50 and older with no out-of-pocket cost, though some may charge a copay. Medicare Part D and Medicare Part B both cover it, depending on where you get the shot.
Bring your insurance card and a list of any vaccines you have had in the past year, especially if you received them at different places. If you do not have insurance, ask about the cost upfront — prices vary by location and provider. Some community health centers offer vaccines on a sliding fee scale based on income.
Side effects and what to expect after each dose
Common side effects after Shingrix include arm soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site. Some people also report muscle aches, fatigue, or a low fever for a day or two. These side effects are normal and usually go away within 2 to 3 days. They are a sign that your immune system is responding to the vaccine.
The second dose may cause more noticeable side effects than the first, particularly muscle aches or fatigue. This does not mean something is wrong — it often means your immune system is building stronger protection. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help if you are uncomfortable.
Serious side effects are rare. If you have signs of an allergic reaction — difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or severe dizziness — seek medical attention right away. These reactions usually happen within minutes to hours of the shot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a booster shot after I finish the two doses?
No. Once you complete both doses of Shingrix, you do not need boosters. The protection lasts at least several years, and studies are still tracking how long it lasts beyond that. Your doctor will tell you if new information changes this recommendation in the future.
Can I get Shingrix if I have never had chickenpox?
Yes. You can get Shingrix even if you do not remember having chickenpox or have no record of it. Most people over 50 have been exposed to the chickenpox virus at some point, even if they did not get sick. Shingrix works for people with or without a history of chickenpox.
What if I get shingles between my two doses?
If you develop shingles after your first dose but before your second, wait until you have fully recovered before getting the second dose. Ask your doctor how long to wait — usually it is at least a few weeks. You still need the second dose to complete your protection.
Can I get Shingrix if I am currently taking immunosuppressant medications?
Shingrix is safe for people on most immunosuppressant medications, including those for rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease. However, timing matters — your doctor may recommend getting it before you start a medication or waiting until your immune system is stronger. Talk to your doctor about the best time for you.
Is there any reason I should not get Shingrix?
Shingrix is not recommended if you have a severe allergy to any ingredient in the vaccine. If you are currently very ill with a high fever, your doctor may suggest waiting until you feel better. Pregnancy is not a reason to avoid it, but most doctors recommend waiting until after pregnancy to get vaccinated. Talk to your doctor about your specific situation.