Shingrix is a vaccine that can be used for both adults and children who have been exposed to the Shingles virus but do not yet have symptoms.
Shingrix vaccine is a new development for the prevention of this painful condition
Healthy adults above the age of fifty years are considered to be candidates for Shingles vaccine. Those who have had exposure to Shingles virus should get two doses of Shingrix vaccine, at least six months apart, even if they have been vaccinated before. However, you don't have to start the series again if you don't get your second dose within the two-month window after the first dose.
The second dose of Shingles vaccine is usually administered six weeks after the first dose. In addition, children below the age of one year can also receive Shingrix vaccination. All Shingles vaccine shots must be completed by the time of your child's next birthday. Children who are under the age of one may need to wait until the child reaches the age of two or three months before the Shingles vaccine is given.
Shingrix can be administered as a vaccine against Shingles, for adults or children above the age of ten years, to anyone – even high school students. However, pregnant women, people undergoing chemotherapy, or children under the age of four must wait until the child reaches the age of two or three months before the Shingles vaccine is given. Even children who have received the Shingles vaccine before and are now living in a healthy environment may not be eligible for a Shingrix vaccine.
When Shingles vaccines are given to children, they can expect to receive either two Shingles vaccine doses or four Shingles vaccine doses in a series. Children receive their first Shingles vaccine shot during their first visit to the doctor for their routine check up. The doctor will determine whether the child requires an Shingles vaccine shot or not. The doctor may recommend either the Inactivated (killed) Shingles vaccine or the Live Attenuated Shingles vaccine for the child.
Shingles vaccine shots are also available in the form of two vials of a single dose that you can take once a day. However, the Shingles vaccine does not work in children with weak immune systems, so the shot should not be taken more than six months after having received the Shingles vaccine. If you have already received Shingles vaccine, or your child is planning to receive the Shingles vaccine, talk to your doctor before you give the shot. to ensure that your child's immune system is in good health and that they will not need any special instructions in order for you to receive this vaccine.
Shingles vaccine can cause a sore throat
Sore throats are usually very uncomfortable and are sometimes accompanied by fever and headache. To help with these symptoms, a decongestant may be recommended.
Shingles vaccine is not recommended for children who smoke or have asthma. If you experience flu-like symptoms after receiving Shingles vaccine, seek medical attention right away, so the doctor can determine the cause and provide you with a better treatment plan.
Shingles vaccine can also cause your child to have a fever, chills, muscle and joint aches, rash, or swollen lymph glands. If you or your child experiences these symptoms, speak to your doctor immediately so you can be sure you or your child will be safe from contracting the virus.
If you or your child has a history of Shingles, it is always best to avoid receiving a Shingles vaccine if you are still experiencing symptoms. If you do get sick with Shingles, it is imperative that you contact your doctor right away.
Shingles vaccine is not a cure-all and will not prevent your child from contracting Shingles in the future. If the virus reappears, you and your child must take other precautions against it such as washing your hands frequently and avoiding contact with people who have recently been diagnosed with the virus.
Shingles vaccine is also not a guarantee that you or your child will never contract Shingles. While Shingles vaccine will likely eliminate your Shingles infection, you should never try to treat the illness through natural methods without consulting your doctor.