The creation of the Shingrix vaccine has made a lot of people confused about whether or not they are eligible or if they should get it if they already obtained the traditional shingles vaccine. However, the important thing that consumers need to know is that the Shingrix vaccine is one of the most powerful ways to protect themselves against acquiring shingles. Anyone who has had the chicken pox (varicella) vaccine or had chicken pox in the past can come down with shingles and then suffer the complications that come along with it.

In general, the CDC recommends that adults consider Shingrix vaccination once they reach the age of 50. The vaccine requires two shots that are spaced two to six months apart. People under 50 who are at high risk for the disease or have a compromised immune system should also get the Shingrix vaccine. The only requirement for this class of people is that they must be 19 or older. Someone who is newly diagnosed and likely to fight disease in the future, causing a weakened immune system, should get it right away and, based on medical discretion, may benefit from having the series with only one month between shots.

Even if you have already had the “old” shingles vaccine, you should still get the Shingrix vaccine because of its much higher efficacy rate. Studies reveal that Shingrix is over 90% effective at preventing shingles in those who are 50 years of age or older and do not have compromised immune systems. Immunity has been proven to remain at high levels during the first seven years following vaccination. Even adults with compromised immune systems benefit from the Shingrix vaccine, which still boasts 68% to 91% efficacy rates in those over 50. This is much better than the former shingles vaccine, which is no longer used in the U.S.

Not sure if you have had chicken pox or the varicella vaccine? You should still get the Shingrix vaccine because over 99% of all Americans born before 1980 have had chicken pox. Many people don’t remember getting chicken pox because they were so young, but once they have had it, the virus can become reactivated later in life and turn into shingles. Shingles is incredibly painful and comes with its own set of complications, so the smart move is to protect yourself with the Shingrix vaccine. If you have contracted shingles, the Shingrix vaccine can help prevent it from coming back, but you should not take the Shingrix vaccine until the rash has completely healed.