It’s resulting from the reactivation of thevaricella-zoster virusin the body (the virus that causes chickenpox).
How Common Is Shingles in Cancer Patients?
Zostavax is no longer available for use.
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This newer shingles vaccine,Shingrix, was made available in 2017.
Shingrix is administered in a two-dose series.
The second dose is administered two to six months after the first.
Recommended Shingles Vaccine
Shingrix, a recombinant vaccine, is the currently recommended shingles vaccine.
The live-attenuated shingles vaccine, Zostavax, is no longer used or recommended.
Shingrix is recommended even for people who are immunocompromised or previously had the Zostavax vaccine.
Shingles Vaccine Risks
There are a few risks associated with receiving the shingles vaccine.
Pain, soreness, and swelling where you get the shot in your arm is possible.
Younger people are more likely to experience side effects.
Fainting is possible after receiving the vaccine, as it is with any vaccine.
The risk of developingGuillan-Barre syndromeis also increased after getting Shingrix.
Serious side effects are uncommon.
Allergic reactions are possible and are also rare.
Getting the vaccine will reduce the number of cases and reports of complications.
The timing of when you get the vaccine may be aligned with when your immune system is stronger.
The immune response lasted even a year after getting the vaccine.
Getting the shingles vaccine is both safe and effective for people diagnosed with and being treated for cancer.
Shingrix is the currently recommended vaccine.
Shingrix is approved for people ages 50 and older, including people who are immunocompromised.
It’s over 90% effective at preventing shingles and related complications.
Severe side effects and allergic reactions are rare.
A Word From Verywell
Vaccines like Shingrix are powerful tools to reduce the risk of certain diseases.
Better understanding a vaccine’s safety and effectiveness is critical to informed decision-making.
If you have a compromised immune system, some vaccines may not be recommended.
Others are safe and effective for people with cancer or who are immunocompromised.
Discuss the benefits and risks of the Shingrix vaccine with your healthcare provider.
These typically went away within two to three days.Some people may faint.
Severe allergic reactions are rare.
Though the condition can be painful, it is rarely life-threatening itself.
It is still possible to get shingles even if you’ve been vaccinated.
No vaccine will completely prevent disease or be 100% effective.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Shingles (herpes zoster).
2015;15(1):106. doi:10.1186/s12879-015-0810-6
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.Vaccine types.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Shingles vaccination.
