Protect Yourself Against Shingles at Walsh’s Pharmacy

Book your in-store Shingles vaccination appointment with our pharmacists today.

Book Your Shingles Vaccine Now

Understanding Shingles: What You Need to Know

Shingles (herpes zoster) is a condition caused by a viral infection. It causes a skin rash and blisters, which can also have an associated sharp, burning nerve pain. Shingles is caused by a reactivation of the chickenpox virus (varicella zoster). This virus hides dormant in your body and waits for your immune system to be run-down before it reactivates.

Approximately 95% of adults over 50 years old have the virus dormant in their body. The risk of reactivation increases as your immune system naturally weakens with age. People under 50 years old with weakened immune systems are also at risk. Shingles is caused by a virus you already have, and it cannot be avoided by healthy living or social distancing.

Shingles symptoms include a painful rash and blisters that crust and form scabs in 7 to 10 days. Nerve pain, which can feel like aching, burning, stabbing, or electric shocks, may accompany this rash. These rashes usually follow the path of a nerve on your body, such as on your chest or abdomen.

Serious complications of Shingles include a condition called post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN). This is severe nerve pain that can last for months or even years. Some people may also experience scarring, loss of vision, or loss of hearing.

Prevention is the Best Medicine.

Why Get Vaccinated at Walsh's Pharmacy?

We are now offering the Shingles vaccine in our pharmacies. We make the process simple and stress-free:

• ') no-repeat left center; background-size: 20px; padding-left: 30px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> Convenience: No need for a doctor's appointment—get vaccinated by our trained pharmacists in a comfortable, private setting. No prescription or hassle.
• ') no-repeat left center; background-size: 20px; padding-left: 30px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> Expert Care: Our pharmacists are fully qualified to administer the vaccine and can answer any questions you may have.
• ') no-repeat left center; background-size: 20px; padding-left: 30px; margin-bottom: 15px;"> Easy Booking: Find a time that works for you through our simple booking process.

Important Vaccine Information

We provide the Shingrix (Herpes Zoster Vaccine Recombinant, adjuvated) vaccine, the most effective way to protect against Shingles. Here are a few key details:

• Two-Dose Series: The vaccine is administered in two doses, about 2 months apart.
• High Efficacy: The vaccine is highly effective at preventing Shingles and its complications, such as postherpetic neuralgia.
• Common Side Effects: Temporary side effects can include pain at the injection site, muscle ache, and fatigue. These are short-lived and typically resolve within 1 to 2 days.

Ready to Protect Yourself?

Booking your appointment is quick and easy. Click the button below to get started.

Book Your Shingles Vaccine Now

You will be directed to our secure booking page to choose your preferred date and time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should get the vaccine?

The vaccine is recommended for healthy adults aged 50 and older, as well as adults aged 18 and older who are immunocompromised. It is suitable for anyone who has had chickenpox as a child.

Is the vaccine covered by insurance?

Coverage can vary. We recommend you check with your private health insurance provider for details on your plan's coverage for the Shingrix vaccine.

Is the vaccine covered by the HSE on my medical card?

Unfortunately, Shingrix is not currently covered under the HSE GMS (Medical Card) scheme. It is a private service. For more information, please visit the HSE website or speak to a member of our pharmacy team.

How much does it cost?

For pricing information, please visit our booking page or contact the pharmacy directly. We aim to provide clear and competitive pricing for this important service.

What if I have my vaccine appointment today and I don’t feel well?

Please contact the pharmacy as soon as possible to reschedule your appointment. We cannot administer the vaccine if you are feeling unwell with a fever or other acute symptoms.

What is my risk of Shingles?

If you have had chickenpox, the virus is already in your system. The risk of reactivation increases significantly as you age. The Shingrix vaccine is the best way to reduce that risk.

What guidelines recommend Shingrix?

Shingrix is the vaccine of choice for the prevention of shingles in adults aged 50+ and those aged 18+ who are immunocompromised, as recommended by the National Immunisation Advisory Committee (NIAC).

Do I really need 2 doses of the vaccine?

Yes. The full two-dose course is required to achieve the highest level of protection (over 90% efficacy). The two doses must be administered between 2 and 6 months apart to be fully effective.

I’m not sure if I need this vaccine, who should I speak to?

Our pharmacists are experts in vaccine services and are here to help. You can book a free consultation or simply call us to discuss any questions you have about the vaccine.

Do I need a Shingles vaccine if I have had chickenpox as a child?

Yes. If you have had chickenpox, the virus that causes shingles is already dormant in your body. The Shingrix vaccine is designed specifically to help your immune system fight off a potential reactivation, which is why it's so important to get vaccinated.

What kind of vaccine is Shingrix?

Shingrix is a recombinant subunit vaccine. This means it contains a protein from the shingles virus, but not the live virus itself. It is a non-live vaccine and cannot cause shingles.

Walsh’s Pharmacy is a trusted Irish pharmacy serving the community for over 30 years.

For any questions, please contact us at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address].