Is the New Shingles Vaccine Shingrix Superior to the Old Zostavax?

The new shingles vaccine, Shingrix, has proven to be more effective than the older Zostavax vaccine. Shingrix offers stronger protection against shingles and its complications, particularly in older adults. If you're looking to minimize the risk of shingles, Shingrix is the recommended choice. For more information, please review my detailed insights on the shingles vaccine on my Quora profile!

Differences Between Shingrix and Zostavax

Zostavax, the previously used vaccine, was similar to the chickenpox vaccine given to children but with a larger dose. It was less effective, with a success rate of about 59%, and was not recommended in countries like the Netherlands where I practiced and still currently reside. In contrast, Shingrix, another subunit vaccine containing a protein from the chickenpox virus and an immune-stimulating adjuvant, has shown a higher efficacy rate and better protection against shingles.

How Shingrix Works

Shingrix is not a 'killed virus' vaccine as some may mistakenly believe. Viruses, being non-living entities, cannot be killed or made into a killed virus vaccine. Shingrix works by stimulating the immune system with a viral protein and an adjuvant, which helps the body produce a stronger immune response. This approach has proven more effective in preventing outbreaks of shingles, with about 90% effectiveness in clinical trials.

Common Side Effects and Their Management

One of the most common side effects of Shingrix is pain at the injection site, which occurs in approximately 30% of people who receive the shot. The injection site pain is often similar to a localized discomfort or a minor injury, such as a socked-in-the-shoulder feeling. This pain typically subsides within a few days and usually does not cause severe issues. Other potential side effects include fever, fatigue, and muscle pain, although these are less common.

Comparing Shingrix and Zostavax

Compared to Zostavax, Shingrix provides significantly better protection against shingles and its complications. The efficacy of Zostavax was found to vary, with rates of effectiveness in the range of 70% for those aged 50 to 59 and only 38% for those over 70. In contrast, Shingrix has a much higher efficacy rate, with studies showing protection against shingles of about 90%.

Conclusion

While the older Zostavax vaccine was an improvement over no vaccine, the newer Shingrix vaccine offers much better protection against shingles. For those concerned about the shingles virus, undergoing the Shingrix vaccination is highly recommended. For more detailed information, please visit my Quora profile for comprehensive insights on the shingles vaccine and its benefits.