Should an 80 year old get the shingles vaccine?

According to the CDC, nearly 1 in 3 people will develop shingles in their lifetime, and the risk increases significantly with age. So, should an 80 year old get the shingles vaccine? Medical experts strongly recommend it to protect against this painful and potentially serious viral infection.

Quick Summary

Adults 80 and older are highly encouraged to receive the recombinant shingles vaccine (Shingrix) due to its high effectiveness and the increased risk of severe complications with advanced age. There is no maximum age for vaccination, and the benefits typically outweigh any potential mild side effects.

Key Points

• High Effectiveness: The Shingrix vaccine is over 90% effective at preventing shingles in adults 70 and older.

• No Maximum Age: There is no upper age limit for getting the shingles vaccine.

• Prevents Severe Complications: Vaccination significantly reduces the risk of painful complications like postherpetic neuralgia (PHN).

• Two-Dose Series: Shingrix is given in two shots, 2 to 6 months apart.

• Side Effects Are Manageable: Vaccine side effects are typically mild and temporary.

• Covers Existing Conditions: Vaccination is often safe for seniors with other health conditions, consult a healthcare provider.

• Medicare Part D Coverage: Medicare Part D plans typically cover the cost of the shingles vaccine.

The Case for Vaccination at 80 and Beyond

As we age, our immune systems naturally weaken, a process called immunosenescence. This can allow the varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox, to reactivate from its dormant state and cause shingles. The risk of developing shingles and experiencing severe complications is highest in older adults. The shingles vaccine is designed to bolster the immune system's defense against this reactivation.

Why Shingles Poses a Greater Threat to Older Adults

Shingles can lead to more serious and lasting complications in older adults. Information on specific complications can be found on {Link: NCOA website https://www.ncoa.org/article/how-long-does-the-shingles-vaccine-last/} and {Link: UCHELATH website https://www.uchealth.org/today/shingles-vaccines-prevent-painful-infections-and-cut-the-risk-of-dementia/}.

Shingrix: The Recommended Vaccine for Seniors

The CDC recommends Shingrix for healthy adults aged 50 and older. It is a non-live vaccine that is over 90% effective at preventing shingles in adults 70 and older. Shingrix is given as a two-dose series, with doses separated by 2 to 6 months. The older Zostavax vaccine is no longer available in the U.S..

Effectiveness and Safety at Advanced Ages

Shingrix shows high effectiveness in older adults, offering about 91% protection against shingles and 89% against PHN for those 70 and older. Protection remains high for at least seven years.

Side effects are usually mild and temporary, such as pain at the injection site, fatigue, and headache. These are generally less severe than a shingles infection.

What if the 80-Year-Old Has Other Health Conditions?

Seniors with existing health conditions can often receive the vaccine after consulting with a healthcare provider. Shingrix can be given to many individuals with compromised immune systems, sometimes with an adjusted schedule.

Shingles Vaccine vs. Chickenpox Immunity

Prior chickenpox infection offers some immunity that decreases over time. Vaccination is recommended even for those who had chickenpox.

Important Considerations Before Vaccination

Consulting a doctor is advised, especially if you have an active shingles infection, a history of severe allergic reaction to Shingrix, or are immunocompromised. Check Medicare Part D for coverage.

Shingrix vs. Zostavax: A Quick Comparison

Feature	Shingrix (Recombinant Vaccine)	Zostavax (Live Attenuated Vaccine - Discontinued in the U.S.)
Effectiveness (Age 70+)	>90%	<20%
Doses Required	2 doses (2-6 months apart)	1 dose
Virus Type	Non-live (adjuvanted)	Live attenuated
Target Population	Adults 50+ and immunocompromised adults 19+	Adults 60+ (older recommendations)
Long-Term Protection	>7 years	Wanes substantially after 5 years
Status in U.S.	Recommended and widely available	Discontinued as of November 2020

Conclusion: Vaccination is a Wise Choice

Getting the shingles vaccine is a valuable step for an 80-year-old to protect against a painful illness and its potential complications. Shingrix is highly effective and recommended, offering significant protection with manageable side effects. Discussing vaccination with a healthcare provider ensures a personalized approach.

For more detailed information on vaccine recommendations, visit the CDC website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe for an 80-year-old to get the shingles vaccine?

Yes, the Shingrix vaccine is considered safe for most healthy adults aged 80 and older, with typically mild and temporary side effects.

What are the common side effects of the shingles vaccine for seniors?

Common side effects can include pain, redness, and swelling at the injection site, and sometimes temporary muscle pain, fatigue, or headache.

How effective is the Shingrix vaccine for those 80 and over?

For adults 70 and older, Shingrix is about 91% effective at preventing shingles and 89% effective at preventing PHN.

Can an 80-year-old get the vaccine if they have already had shingles?

Yes, vaccination is strongly recommended even if you have previously had shingles, as reinfection is possible.

Do you need a prescription for the shingles vaccine?

In many cases, a prescription is not required as licensed pharmacists can administer the vaccine, but checking with your provider is advised.

Does Medicare cover the shingles vaccine?

Medicare Part D plans generally cover the cost of the shingles vaccine with no patient cost-sharing, but verify with your specific plan.

What if an 80-year-old is immunocompromised?

Immunocompromised adults should discuss vaccination with their doctor. Shingrix is recommended for this group aged 19 and older, possibly with a modified schedule.