If you're looking for a shingles vaccine pharmacy, you may already know that shingles can cause a painful rash and sometimes longer-lasting complications. What you may not know is whether you're eligible for vaccination, which vaccine is used, or what to expect after the injection.

The vaccine used in the UK is called Shingrix. This guide explains who can have it, how many doses are involved, the common side effects, and how a pharmacy can help you get advice, in plain language.

Considering a shingles vaccination? Pottery Road Pharmacy can help you understand the shingles vaccination service available and what to expect. Contact the pharmacy to discuss your requirements. → Enquire About Shingles Vaccination

What Is Shingles?

Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. After chickenpox, the virus stays dormant in the body and can switch back on years later as a painful rash.

For some people, the pain outlasts the rash. This is called post-herpetic neuralgia, a nerve pain that can linger for weeks or months. Shingles can sometimes lead to serious problems, and the risk of these is higher as you get older or if you have a severely weakened immune system. NHS guidance lists long-lasting pain, hearing loss and eye problems among the possible complications. NHS

What Is the Shingrix Vaccine?

Shingrix is a non-live, recombinant sub-unit vaccine given as a two-dose schedule, and it is currently the only shingles vaccine used in the national programme. Because it is non-live, it does not contain a weakened form of the virus. It helps your immune system prepare to respond if the virus reactivates, and it is given as an injection into the upper arm. NHS England

Vaccination vs treating shingles

Vaccination and treatment do different jobs:

Shingles vaccinationShingles treatmentPreventive approachUsed after shingles developsHelps reduce the risk of shinglesHelps manage an existing infectionGiven before illness occursUsed when symptoms are presentMay reduce the risk of complicationsTreatment depends on symptoms and riskEligibility and service rules applyMedical assessment may be required

NHS guidance explains that antiviral medicine may be used for shingles in some circumstances, and that early treatment can help reduce complications. If you think you have shingles, don't wait to see whether you can get vaccinated. Speak to your GP, pharmacist or NHS 111 promptly.

Who Is Eligible for the Shingles Vaccine in the UK?

In England, the NHS shingles vaccine is currently available to three groups:

  • Adults turning 65. If you turn 65 on or after 1 September 2023, you become eligible when you reach 65, and you remain eligible until your 80th birthday, although the second dose can be given up to your 81st birthday. NHS
  • Adults aged 70 to 79. If you turned 65 before 1 September 2023, you become eligible when you turn 70. NHS
  • Adults aged 18 and over with a severely weakened immune system. This includes some people with blood cancers, some with HIV, some who have recently had a stem cell or organ transplant, chemotherapy or radiotherapy, and people taking certain medicines that severely weaken the immune system.

Your GP surgery will usually contact you when you become eligible, and you can contact them if you think you've been missed. The programme is being expanded in phases, so always check the NHS shingles vaccine page for the latest position. Eligibility in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland can differ.

This means the NHS programme does not cover every adult over 50. Being outside the age bands does not necessarily mean you can't be vaccinated, but it does mean the vaccine may not be NHS-funded for you (more on that below).

When Should You Ask About Your Eligibility?

It's worth asking your GP or pharmacist if:

  • You're approaching an eligible age
  • You missed a previous vaccination opportunity and are still under 80
  • You have a severely weakened immune system, or are about to start immunosuppressive treatment
  • You're not sure whether you've had the vaccine before
  • You've had shingles before. People can get shingles more than once, so having had it doesn't mean vaccination is unnecessary. NHS
  • You've had a first dose and aren't sure when the second is due

How Many Shingrix Doses Do You Need?

The course is two doses, but the gap between them depends on your situation.

  • NHS programme, routine eligible adults: the two doses are given 6 to 12 months apart. NHS
  • NHS programme, severely weakened immune system: the doses are given 8 weeks to 6 months apart. NHS

Outside the NHS programme, the manufacturer's product information describes a wider window: a second dose 2 months after the first, or between 2 and 6 months if flexibility is needed, with 1 to 2 months for people who are or may become immunosuppressed and would benefit from a shorter schedule. Your pharmacist or clinician will confirm the timing that suits your circumstances and current UK guidance. europa

How long does it take to work?

Vaccination doesn't give instant protection. Protection develops as your immune system responds to the vaccine, and completing both doses matters. It is a preventive measure, not a treatment for an active shingles infection, so it won't help if you already have shingles.

What Are the Common Shingrix Side Effects?

The NHS says most shingles vaccine side effects are mild. They usually improve within 2 or 3 days. They can include: NHS

  • Pain, swelling, itching or bruising where the injection was given
  • Headache
  • Feeling tired
  • Aching muscles or body
  • A high temperature or feeling feverish
  • Shivering (chills)

Sore arms are common, and some people feel tired or achy for a day or two. If a reaction is severe, or lasts longer than you expected, speak to a healthcare professional.

Are Serious Reactions Possible?

A severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) is very rare. The person vaccinating you is trained to recognise and treat allergic reactions immediately.

You shouldn't have the vaccine if you've had a serious allergic reaction to a previous dose or to an ingredient in it. If you have any history of a serious reaction to a vaccine, tell the vaccinator before you have it.

Can You Have the Shingles Vaccine After Having Shingles?

Generally, yes. The NHS advises eligible people to get vaccinated even if they've had shingles before, because it can come back. The exception is timing: vaccination is usually postponed while you have an active episode of shingles and should wait until you've recovered.

This is general information, not personal medical advice. If you're unsure about your own circumstances, talk to your GP, pharmacist or vaccination provider.

What Happens During a Shingles Vaccination Appointment?

  1. Eligibility and health check. The pharmacist or vaccination provider reviews relevant information, including your health, medicines and any past reactions to vaccines.
  2. Vaccine discussion. You can ask about the vaccine, the dose schedule and possible side effects.
  3. Vaccination. The vaccine is given by injection, normally into the upper arm.
  4. Aftercare advice. You'll be told what reactions are common and what to do if you're worried.
  5. Second dose. If you need two doses, the timing of the next one is discussed before you leave.

When Should You Delay or Discuss Vaccination First?

Talk to a healthcare professional before vaccination if any of these apply:

  • You feel unwell. If you have a high temperature or feel too unwell for your normal activities, wait until you're better. NHS
  • You currently have shingles. Vaccination should wait until you've recovered.
  • You've had a serious allergic reaction to a previous dose or an ingredient of the vaccine.
  • You have a weakened immune system, or you're about to have treatment that affects immunity. You may be eligible for the NHS programme, and timing around treatment may matter.
  • You're pregnant, or have another circumstance that needs individual clinical advice.

Why Consider a Pharmacy for Shingles Vaccination?

For some people, a pharmacy is a convenient place to get vaccination advice and, where offered, the vaccination itself. Potential benefits include:

  • Easy, appointment-based access to vaccination services
  • Pharmacist-led advice and the chance to discuss your eligibility
  • A convenient local location
  • Help understanding the dose schedule

Availability, eligibility and funding vary between services and locations. NHS shingles vaccination is normally arranged through your GP surgery, and not every pharmacy offers the same service, so check directly with the pharmacy first.

NHS Shingles Vaccination vs Pharmacy Services

It helps to separate three different questions:

  • NHS eligibility: whether you qualify for the NHS shingles vaccination programme, based on age or health condition.
  • Pharmacy service: whether a particular pharmacy offers a shingles vaccination service, and under what conditions.
  • Private vaccination: where available, a pharmacy may offer vaccination outside the NHS programme, subject to service availability and clinical assessment. The manufacturer's product information covers adults aged 50 or over, and adults aged 18 or over at increased risk of shingles, but whether you can be vaccinated privately is decided at assessment. europa

Being ineligible for the NHS programme doesn't automatically rule out private vaccination, and being eligible for the NHS programme doesn't mean any pharmacy can provide it.

How Much Does the Shingles Vaccine Cost?

The cost depends on whether you're eligible for the NHS-funded programme or are accessing a private vaccination service. Where the NHS programme applies, the vaccine is free. Private pricing and availability change, so confirm the current cost directly with the pharmacy before you book.

Why Choose Pottery Road Pharmacy?

Pottery Road Pharmacy provides pharmacy services for the local community in Reading and lists shingles vaccination among its private services. Its pharmacists have more than 10 years of experience, and the team can help you understand your vaccination options, answer general questions and advise on next steps.

The pharmacy doesn't set the eligibility rules, which come from the NHS and UK health authorities, but it can help you work out which route applies to you. The pharmacy also offers flu vaccination and pneumonia vaccination, and you can usually have the shingles vaccine at the same time as vaccines such as these.

You can find us at 2a Tylers Pl, Pottery Rd, Reading RG30 6BW, or call 0118 996 4203. To learn more about the service, see shingles vaccination at Pottery Road Pharmacy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for the shingles vaccine in the UK?

In England, the NHS programme covers adults turning 65, adults aged 70 to 79, and adults aged 18 and over with a severely weakened immune system. Eligibility can differ in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, and NHS eligibility can be different from private availability at a pharmacy.

What is the Shingrix vaccine?

Shingrix is a non-live, two-dose shingles vaccine used in the UK national programme. It helps reduce the chance of getting shingles and of serious problems if you do.

What are the common side effects of the shingles vaccine?

Mostly mild effects such as pain, swelling, itching or bruising at the injection site, plus headache, tiredness, aching muscles, a high temperature or chills.

How many doses of Shingrix are needed?

Two. On the NHS, they're given 6 to 12 months apart, or 8 weeks to 6 months apart if you have a severely weakened immune system. Timing for private vaccination is confirmed by the provider.

Can I have the shingles vaccine if I've already had shingles?

Usually yes, once you've recovered. You can get shingles more than once. Discuss your own circumstances with your GP, pharmacist or vaccination provider.

Can I get the shingles vaccine at a pharmacy?

ome pharmacies offer it, usually as a private service, though NHS shingles vaccination is normally arranged through your GP. Ask the pharmacy about the service, eligibility and conditions before you book.

How much does a shingles vaccine cost at a pharmacy?

It depends on the pharmacy's current private service and pricing. Contact Pottery Road Pharmacy for the current cost.

Can the shingles vaccine be given with other vaccines?

Usually yes. The NHS says it can normally be given at the same time as vaccines such as flu, COVID-19 and pneumococcal.

How long do shingles vaccine side effects last?

Most side effects get better within 2 or 3 days.

When should I speak to a healthcare professional before having the shingles vaccine?

If you're unwell with a high temperature, currently have shingles, have had a serious allergic reaction to a vaccine, have a weakened immune system, take medicines that affect immunity, or are pregnant.

Book or Enquire About Shingles Vaccination

Deciding about a shingles vaccination is easier when you know who's eligible, how many doses you'll need and what side effects to expect. If you're looking for a shingles vaccine pharmacy in Reading, the team at Pottery Road Pharmacy can talk you through the service available, your eligibility and the next steps.

Looking for a shingles vaccine pharmacy? If you're considering Shingrix, speak with Pottery Road Pharmacy about the vaccination service available, eligibility and next steps. → Contact Pottery Road Pharmacy · Book an appointment