The Shingles Shot
The shingles shot is an important preventive measure against the painful rash associated with herpes zoster. It helps reduce the chance of developing the painful condition caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. If left untreated, the rash can be painful and cause chronic pain.
Side effects of shingles vaccine
The Shingrix vaccine helps people build a strong immune system against shingles. However, it can cause temporary side effects that can interfere with everyday activities for up to three days. These side effects can range from mild to moderate pain and redness to fever and shivering. A headache and stomach pain may also accompany them.
The CDC recommends shingles vaccination for healthy adults. However, the agency warns that the vaccine can cause side effects. These side effects can last up to three days, including fatigue, muscle pain, headache, shivering, and nausea. About one in six people experience side effects after receiving the vaccine.
Cost of shingles vaccine
The full retail cost of two doses of the shingles vaccine is about $324, but you can save money on this procedure by getting it through Medicare. Medicare will cover the vaccine cost as long as you have a Medicare Part D plan. However, you should be aware that your copay will vary from plan to plan, so you may need to pay for the vaccine out of pocket. If you have Medicare Part D coverage, the cost of shingles vaccinations will usually fall within your deductible.
The shingles vaccine cost can vary, but if Medicare or TRICARE covers you, you can get it at a participating pharmacy. Alternatively, you can visit your health provider's office to get the vaccine.
Cost of Zostavax
In recent years, a new shingles vaccine has become available. But the vaccine cost can still be high for many people, even those with health insurance. The cost of Zostavax varies, depending on your plan and the specific vaccination. While Medicare Part D will cover the cost of Zostavax, Medicaid and some private insurance plans may not. In such cases, you can get the shot at a pharmacy for a lower cost.
Part D plans cover the cost of the Zostavax shingles vaccine, but they do not cover the entire cost. Most Part D plans divide their drug formularies into Tiers based on cost. Drugs in Tier 1 and Tier 2 are cheaper generics, while those in Tier 3 and 4 are more expensive nonpreferred brands. A recent study by Consumer Reports found that many Part D plans classified Zostavax as a Tier 3 or Tier 4 drug, even though Zostavax is only available from Merck.
Risk of heart attacks
There is a link between shingles and heart attack risk. The study found a statistically significant increase in TIA, stroke, and cardiovascular events among patients who received shingles shot. People who had the shingles shot were also more likely to have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. Those who received shingles were also more likely to be older and female. They were also less likely to smoke, exercise, and be from a higher socioeconomic status.
The shingles virus moves through the skin and may attack certain nerves and blood vessels. This can lead to a blood clots, heart attacks, and strokes. It can also cause severe pain. Researchers do not know whether shingles shots may reduce these risks. Still, they note that previous studies have shown that the risk of heart attacks after shingles vaccination is lower in healthy people than in high-risk individuals.
Side effects of Zostavax
The Zostavax shingles shot contains a live varicella-zoster virus, but it can have severe side effects for immunosuppression patients. Moreover, this vaccine is not recommended for people who have already contracted shingles. Its side effects include a painful rash and a headache.
You should discuss these concerns with your doctor if you are prone to severe side effects. These reactions can include muscle and joint pain, hives at the injection site, nausea, and a rash. In rare cases, you may experience shingles. It is also important to check with your doctor for a pregnancy history because this vaccine may cause adverse reactions.
