Shingles Vaccine, Who Should Not Have It

Since the shingles vaccine was given license back in 2006, the clinical trials on the drug have displayed tremendous results, reducing the risk of shingles by 50%. On cases wherein those who have received the vaccine developed shingles, the pain was significantly less compared to those who did not receive the vaccine.

This may sound like the answer to all shingles problems, especially for those 60 years old and above, however, the shingles vaccine isn’t for everyone.

Those who have life-threatening allergies to gelatin, the antibiotic neomycin or any other components in  the shingles vaccine, it is best to stay away. A compromised immune system due to AIDS or other immune-compromising diseases, drug treatments that affect the immune system, those undergoing or who have undergone radiation or chemotherapy for cancer, bone marrow or lymphatic system cancers like leukemia or lymphoma should also not get the vaccine. The vaccine should also be avoided by pregnant women, or those who plan to be pregnant. The vaccine is may have side effects for those who get pregnant at least  weeks after receiving the vaccine.

While it is safe for those who have minor illnesses like colds or mild fever to receive the vaccine, anybody with moderate or severe acute illness should wait until recovery.

Source: http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/vis/downloads/vis-shingles.pdf