The shingles vaccine is a crucial preventive measure offered in Australia to protect against herpes zoster, a painful reactivation of the chickenpox virus. While the vaccine is highly effective, many people wonder about the potential side effects before getting vaccinated. This blog post provides a clear, up-to-date overview of the common and rare side effects of the shingles vaccine in Australia, helping you make an informed decision in 2025.
Common Side Effects of the Shingles Vaccine
Most people tolerate the shingles vaccine well, with side effects generally mild and short-lived. Common reactions usually appear within 1 to 3 days after vaccination and include:
- Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
- Tiredness or fatigue
- Muscle aches
- Headache
- Fever or chills
- Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea or upset stomach
These symptoms are signs that your immune system is responding to the vaccine and typically resolve within a few days without treatment. Applying a cool compress to the injection site and taking over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol can help ease discomfort.
Less Common and Rare Side Effects
While serious side effects are uncommon, it’s important to be aware of them:
- Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis): Symptoms may include swelling of the face, throat, lips, or tongue; difficulty breathing; hives; dizziness; or rapid heartbeat. If any of these occur, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
- Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS): A very rare neurological disorder causing muscle weakness and paralysis has been reported in a small number of cases following vaccination. The risk is estimated at about 3 extra cases per million doses. Early symptoms include tingling or numbness in the fingers or toes and require urgent medical care.
- Fainting: Some people may faint after any injectable vaccine, so precautions are taken to prevent injury.
Who Should Not Get the Shingles Vaccine?
The shingles vaccine is not recommended for individuals who:
- Have had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or any vaccine component
- Currently have shingles
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding (due to limited safety data)
- Have moderate or severe illness at the time of vaccination (vaccination may be postponed until recovery)
Australian Safety Data
According to AusVaxSafety, Australia’s vaccine safety monitoring system, over half of people vaccinated with Shingrix® report no side effects in the first three days. Among those who do, injection site reactions are most common, followed by fatigue, muscle or joint pain, and headache. Less than 7% report missing work or routine activities due to side effects, and serious adverse events are very rare.
Managing Side Effects
If you experience mild side effects, you can:
- Rest and stay hydrated
- Use a cool compress on the injection site
- Take over-the-counter pain relief if needed (consult your healthcare provider first)
Always report any unusual or severe reactions to your doctor.
The shingles vaccine is a safe and effective way to reduce your risk of developing shingles and its complications. While mild side effects like soreness and fatigue are common, serious reactions are rare. Understanding what to expect can help you feel confident about vaccination. If you have concerns or experience severe symptoms after vaccination, consult your healthcare provider promptly.