Free Shingles Vaccines for Over 65s

If you’re aged 65 or over, you may now be eligible for a free shingles vaccine under the National Immunisation Program. 

What Is Shingles?

Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus - the same virus that causes chickenpox. After you’ve had chickenpox, the virus stays in your body and can reactivate later in life as shingles, especially as your immune system naturally weakens with age.

Shingles causes a painful, blistering rash, often on one side of the body, and can lead to complications like long-term nerve pain (postherpetic neuralgia), eye problems, or scarring.

Who Is Eligible for the Free Vaccine?

From November 2023, a new two-dose shingles vaccine (Shingrix) is available free for:

• All adults aged 65 years and over

• First Nations people aged 50 and over

• Immunocompromised adults aged 18 and over at higher risk

The vaccine is now part of the National Immunisation Program and replaces the previous vaccine (Zostavax), offering higher protection and a longer duration of immunity.

Why You Shouldn’t Wait

Even if you’ve already had shingles, the vaccine can reduce your risk of getting it again, or help make any future episodes milder. The new vaccine is more than 90% effective at preventing shingles and its complications in older adults.

What’s Involved?

The shingles vaccine involves two doses, typically given 2 to 6 months apart. Your GP can guide you through the timing, answer any questions about side effects, and help plan your doses around any other vaccinations or health needs.

Protect Your Future Health

If you’re over 65, now’s the perfect time to book in for your free shingles vaccine. It’s quick, safe, and can prevent the occurrence of av

oidable pain or health issues. 

Book an appointment with your GP today to check your eligibility and get started.