Shingles vaccination
Shingles is a viral infection caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. It is typically characterised by a painful, itchy rash.
A shingles vaccination can help reduce your risk of developing the disease and is generally recommended for those most vulnerable.
The shingles vaccination is recommended for:
- People aged 50 years and over
- People aged 18 years and over who are immunocompromised
Fees may apply
National Immunisation Program (NIP) Eligibility
Under the National Immunisation Program (NIP), eligible individuals can receive a free two-dose shingles vaccine. Those eligible include:
- Adults aged 65 years and over
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 years and over
- Immunocompromised adults aged 18 years and over
The shingles vaccine is given as a two-dose course, spaced 2 to 6 months apart. To ensure maximum protection, it's important to complete both doses.
Please note that patients who have previously received Zostavax® free under the NIP cannot receive free Shingrix® until at least 5 years after the Zostavax® dose. The patient will still need to complete the 2-dose schedule of Shingrix®.
Patients who have previously received Zostavax® privately are eligible to receive Shingrix® free under the NIP. An interval of at least 12 months is recommended between receiving Zostavax® and a subsequent dose of Shingrix®. The patient will still need to complete the 2-dose schedule of Shingrix®. **
Vaccination is still recommended for those who have had a shingles infection in the past. However, you should wait at least 12 months between an episode of shingles and having the vaccine. As the risk of further infection is higher in immunocompromised people, Shingrix® can be given 3 months after illness.***
My Vaccination Record
Keep track of vaccinations administered at TerryWhite Chemmart pharmacies via our app, helping you stay up to date with recommended vaccines, view your vaccination history, and receive reminders for upcoming appointments.
Please note, My Vaccination Record is not linked to the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) and only shows vaccinations given at TerryWhite Chemmart pharmacies via our app.
How do I join My Vaccination Record?
- Download the TerryWhite Chemmart app from your app store.
- Create an account and link it to your local TerryWhite Chemmart.
- Once your TerryWhite Chemmart pharmacist has administered your vaccination, go to the My Vaccinations section in the app.
- View your vaccination record and stay on track with reminders for upcoming vaccinations.
Stay informed and in control of your immunisation history with My Vaccination Record.
Download our app today!
My Vaccination Record
Keep track of vaccinations administered at TerryWhite Chemmart pharmacies via our app, helping you stay up to date with recommended vaccines, view your vaccination history, and receive reminders for upcoming appointments.
Please note, My Vaccination Record is not linked to the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) and only shows vaccinations given at TerryWhite Chemmart pharmacies via our app.
How do I join My Vaccination Record?
- Download the TerryWhite Chemmart app from your app store.
- Create an account and link it to your local TerryWhite Chemmart.
- Once your TerryWhite Chemmart pharmacist has administered your vaccination, go to the My Vaccinations section in the app.
- View your vaccination record and stay on track with reminders for upcoming vaccinations.
Stay informed and in control of your immunisation history with My Vaccination Record.
Download our app today!
Learn more about shingles
Shingles is a viral infection caused by the varicella zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant (inactive) in the body. If it reactivates, it can cause shingles.
Only individuals who have previously had chickenpox or been exposed to the virus are at risk of developing shingles, although not everyone will. It’s estimated that one in three Australians will experience shingles at some point in their lives.1