Private Shingles Vaccination
Herpes Zoster Prevention
Book online at a pharmacy in 13 towns in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
About Shingles Vaccination
The shingles vaccine helps protect against shingles (herpes zoster). It reduces the risk of shingles by over 70%. It is not a live vaccine and cannot cause shingles.
Who it’s for
- Adults aged 50 or over
- Adults aged 18 or over with a weakened immune system, or at risk of one
- People who have had shingles or chickenpox before
- Not suitable if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Common questions
How many doses do I need?
You need 2 doses. The second dose is given 2 to 6 months after the first.
How much does it cost?
Each pharmacy sets its own price. You can see it when you choose a pharmacy.
Who can get it free on the NHS in Scotland?
The NHS offers it to adults from the 1 September after their 65th birthday, and to adults aged 70 to 79. It is also offered to people aged 18 or over with a severely weakened immune system. You can get it up until your 80th birthday.
What are the side effects?
Common side effects are pain, redness and swelling where the injection was given, muscle pain, tiredness, chills, fever, headache and feeling sick. They usually last about 1 to 3 days.
Do I need it if I have had shingles?
Yes. You still need the vaccine if you have had shingles, or if you have never had chickenpox. If you had shingles recently, you may be advised to wait.
Can the vaccine give me shingles?
No. It is not a live vaccine. It cannot cause shingles.
More information
- ScotlandNHS inform: Shingles vaccine (opens in a new tab)
- Northern Irelandnidirect: Shingles vaccine (opens in a new tab)
- England and WalesNHS: Shingles vaccine (opens in a new tab)
Sources: NHS inform: Why you should get the shingles vaccine, NHS inform: About the shingles vaccine you'll be offered, NHS inform: Who can get the shingles vaccine, NHS inform: Side effects of the shingles vaccine.
How it works
Choose a service
Pick the service you need.
Find a pharmacy
Enter your town or postcode to see pharmacies near you that book it online.
Book a time
Choose a day and time, answer the pharmacy’s questions and send your booking. The pharmacy confirms it by email.