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A guide to why shingles can return after a previous episode, who is most at risk of recurrence, and how vaccination can help reduce the likelihood of future shingles-related problems.
Yes, shingles can return. While most people only experience shingles once, a second or even third episode is possible. This happens because shingles is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus — the same virus that causes chickenpox.
After you’ve had chickenpox, the virus remains dormant within your nerve cells for life. Although the immune system usually keeps it under control, it can sometimes reactivate again later, leading to another episode of shingles. The risk of recurrence is relatively low for most people, but it is not uncommon — particularly as people get older.
Shingles reoccurs when the body’s immune system is unable to fully suppress the dormant varicella-zoster virus. As we age, our immune response naturally becomes less effective — which can allow the virus to reactivate more easily. In many cases, there is no obvious reason why shingles returns.
Recurrence is possible, which is why preventative measures such as vaccination can still be beneficial even after a previous episode.
Anyone who has previously had shingles can experience another episode, but some groups are at greater risk. The risk of both shingles and its complications generally increases with age — which is why healthcare professionals often recommend vaccination for eligible adults, even if they have previously had shingles.
Having shingles does provide some natural immune boosting against the virus, which may temporarily reduce the likelihood of another episode. However, it does not provide complete or lifelong protection.
Unlike some infections where a single episode results in long-term immunity, shingles can return because the virus remains within the body. This means that even if you’ve previously had shingles, you may still benefit from vaccination if you are eligible — and many people are surprised to learn that a previous shingles infection does not automatically remove the need for future protection.
Yes. In fact, many people who have previously had shingles are encouraged to consider vaccination once they have recovered. Having had shingles does not prevent you from receiving the vaccine.
The purpose of vaccination after recovery is to help strengthen your immune response and reduce the risk of future episodes and complications. Many patients assume that vaccination is only useful for people who have never had shingles — but this is not the case. If you’ve had shingles before, vaccination may still offer valuable protection.
You should not receive the shingles vaccine while you have an active shingles infection. The rash should be fully healed and any acute symptoms should have resolved before vaccination is considered.
Immunocompetent individuals who have had shingles are generally advised to wait around 12 months after the infection before receiving the Shingrix vaccine, as an episode of shingles naturally boosts immunity for a period of time. However, people who are immunosuppressed or have a weakened immune system may be offered vaccination sooner, as they are at higher risk of recurrence and complications. Our pharmacy team can advise on what is most appropriate for your individual circumstances.
Shingrix is the shingles vaccine currently recommended for many adults in the UK. It works by boosting the immune system’s ability to recognise and control the varicella-zoster virus. Shingrix has been shown to provide a high level of protection, including in older adults who are at greater risk of shingles.
While no vaccine can guarantee complete protection, vaccination significantly reduces the likelihood of future shingles-related problems.
Vaccination is most effective when used as a preventative measure before future episodes occur. Many people only think about it after experiencing shingles themselves or seeing a friend or family member affected — but it is worth considering sooner rather than later.
If you’re unsure whether the shingles vaccine is suitable for you, our pharmacy team can discuss your eligibility and help you understand your options.
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