Varicella zoster vaccine [Shingles vaccine]

Herpes zoster, commonly known as shingles, is caused by the varicella zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes chickenpox. Following chickenpox infection the virus lies dormant in the nerves near the spine and may re-emerge many years later as shingles. Shingles most commonly affects older adults or people of any age with a weakened immune system.

Funded for patients meeting the following criteria:

• Two doses for all people aged 65 years - if the first dose is given in the 65th year then the second dose can be given at 66 (6 months apart). First dose MUST be given in the 65th year, otherwise non funded