VEI Clinic · Shingles Vaccine

A conversation to have from age 50:
shingles vaccination

Shingles develops when the chickenpox virus, which has remained dormant in the nerves after a childhood infection, becomes active again as immunity weakens. It causes a band of blisters and severe pain, and nerve pain can persist long after the blisters heal. Shingles vaccination reduces the risk of shingles and this lasting nerve pain. At VEI Clinic, we choose the vaccine based on your age and health.

VEI Clinic, Gangnam — VEI Clinic · Shingles Vaccine

Types of Shingles Vaccines

Two types of shingles vaccine are used in Korea: a recombinant vaccine made from part of a viral protein and a live vaccine made from weakened virus. They differ in effectiveness, duration of protection and reactions after vaccination. We explain these differences during your consultation.

Recombinant vaccine: 2 doses, usually 2 to 6 months apart. It can be given to adults age 50 or older and to adults age 18 or older whose immunity is reduced by illness or treatment
Live vaccine: 1 dose. It is used for adults age 50 or older and cannot be given to people with weakened immunity or during pregnancy

Who It May Suit

Adults age 50 or older
People with conditions that can weaken immunity, such as diabetes or chronic kidney or lung disease
People about to start or currently receiving immunosuppressive treatment (recombinant vaccine)
People who have had shingles (with timing planned after recovery)

If You Have Had Shingles Before

Shingles can recur, so vaccination is recommended even if you have had it before. It is given after the blisters and pain have settled and you have recovered. We decide on the timing during your consultation.

Reactions After Vaccination

Pain and swelling at the injection site, muscle aches, fatigue, headache, chills and a mild fever are common with the recombinant vaccine. They usually settle within 2 to 3 days. The discomfort can affect daily activities, so it is best to avoid vaccination the day before an important event.

We observe you at the clinic for 20 to 30 minutes after vaccination in case of a severe allergic reaction.

The VEI Clinic Approach

An internal medicine specialist reviews your age, underlying conditions and medications, then explains which vaccine is suitable before giving it. For the recombinant vaccine, we also explain when to return for the second dose and check whether you need flu or pneumococcal vaccination.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

How many shingles vaccine doses do I need?

The recombinant vaccine requires 2 doses, while the live vaccine requires 1. The right vaccine depends on your age and immune status.

Should I get vaccinated if I have already had shingles?

Vaccination is recommended because shingles can recur. We plan the timing after you have recovered.

Can I get the recombinant vaccine if I previously had the live vaccine?

Yes. You can receive the recombinant vaccine after a certain interval following the live vaccine. We explain the interval during your consultation.

Can I have it with other vaccines?

It can be given on the same day as flu or pneumococcal vaccines at different injection sites. The recombinant vaccine can cause reactions afterward, so please discuss timing around your schedule.