Herold’s Pharmacy offers the Shingrix Shingles vaccine for customers in Charleston.
What is Shingles?
After you have been infected with chickenpox (usually in childhood), the virus can live in your body’s nerve roots in an inactive form. For reasons that are not fully understood, the virus may become active again. This causes shingles, also know as zoster, with symptoms of rash, blisters, and pain. This vaccine works by boosting the body’s natural defense (immunity) against the zoster virus so that symptoms of shingles do not develop. It should not be used for treating active shingles, nerve pain caused by shingles, or for the prevention of chickenpox. Redness, itching, swelling, warmth, bruising, or pain at the injection site may occur. Headache, muscle pain, tiredness, or fever may also occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your health care professional promptly.
What is the Shingles Vaccine?
This vaccine is commonly known as Shingrix is used by adults to prevent zoster (shingles). Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. This vaccine is usually given in a series of 2 doses to provide the best protection. Before you receive this vaccine, tell the health care professional if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. Some products that may interact with this vaccine are: drugs that weaken the immune system (including cyclosporine, tacrolimus, cancer chemotherapy, corticosteroids such as prednisone). You can read more about it at the CDC website.
Is it Covered by Insurance?
Yes! It is covered by insurance and Herold’s Pharmacy accepts all Insurance, including Medicare Part B and D, and Medicaid. Some insurances have a small co-pay, though many cover it 100%. We also do not charge an office visit for the vaccine.