Shingles Vaccine Expansion to Protect More Adults in Northern Ireland

Plans are underway to expand the shingles vaccination programme in Northern Ireland starting from September 1, 2025. This initiative aims to provide crucial protection against shingles, a condition known for its intense pain and potential long-lasting complications. Currently, the vaccine is offered to individuals aged 65 and 70 as of September 1, alongside those aged 50 and over who have a severely weakened immune system.

The upcoming changes will allow anyone aged 18 and older with a severely weakened immune system to receive two doses of the Shingrix vaccine, as announced by the Public Health Agency (PHA). This decision follows a recommendation from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), which cited clinical trials demonstrating the vaccine’s high safety and effectiveness for these groups.

Understanding Shingles and Its Risks

Shingles can affect individuals of any age, but the likelihood and severity of symptoms increase with age, particularly for those with compromised immune systems. According to Rachel Spiers, Immunisation and Vaccination Programme Manager at the PHA, “Shingles cannot be caught from other people. Instead, it develops in people who have previously been infected with chickenpox at any point in their lifetime.”

The shingles virus can reactivate, typically in older adults or those undergoing certain medical treatments or experiencing high levels of stress. Initial symptoms often include pain or tingling in a specific area of skin, followed by a painful rash. Even after the rash fades, individuals may suffer from lingering discomfort. The vaccination significantly reduces the risk of developing shingles and the severity of its symptoms, making it essential for those eligible to get vaccinated.

Eligibility and Vaccination Process

Eligible individuals will be contacted by their General Practitioner (GP) for vaccination. The vaccine is administered as an injection in the upper arm, requiring two doses spaced at least six months apart. For those with weakened immune systems, the second dose should be administered at least two months after the first.

If individuals have missed the opportunity to receive the shingles vaccine, they can still do so until their 80th birthday. Those who believe they qualify for the vaccine but have not yet been vaccinated are encouraged to contact their GP practice for further information.

For more details on the shingles vaccination programme, visit the PHA’s website at www.pha.site/shingles. It is crucial not to delay vaccination, as timely protection is key in reducing the risk of this painful condition.