Should I Get the Shingles Vaccine If I Never Had Chickenpox?
Before you decide to get shingles vaccine, there are many things to consider.
Who is susceptible to developing shingles?
According to the CDC, more than 99 percent of Americans 40 years and older have had chickenpox. It’s important to note that even if you don’t remember having the disease, it may be lying dormant in your body. Therefore, much of America’s population of people 40 and older are susceptible to developing shingles.
When is best to get vaccinated from shingles?
Shingles vaccine known as Shingrix [3] is most recommended for individuals of the age 50 and older.
What if you’re over 50 and have never had chickenpox?
If you are above the age of 50 and sure you have never had chickenpox, meet your doctor to run a blood test in order to determine your level of chickenpox immunity. If it turns out that you’ve never been exposed to chickenpox, consider getting vaccinated against the virus to protect against any future exposure.
Most adults between the age of 30 and 50 don’t need to worry about racing to get either the chickenpox or shingles vaccine. Factors that should have you get the shingles vaccine before turning 50 include:
- If you work in an industry that might have higher exposure to chickenpox, like healthcare or teaching
- If you are pregnant
- If you are HIV-positive
Even though chickenpox and shingles are of the same virus, there are several differences between them.