Shingrix Vaccination Recommendations for Health Care Personnel
Age‑Based Recommendations
- Immunocompetent health‑care personnel aged ≥ 50 years should receive the recombinant zoster vaccine (Shingrix) as a two‑dose series, with doses administered 2–6 months apart (minimum interval 4 weeks). 1
- Immunocompromised health‑care personnel aged ≥ 18 years may receive Shingrix on a case‑by‑case basis, because the vaccine is FDA‑approved for this population. 2
Prior Zoster Vaccination History
- Personnel who previously received the live‑attenuated zoster vaccine (Zostavax) should still complete the Shingrix two‑dose series, initiating the first dose at least 2 months after the last Zostavax dose. 1, 2
Dosing Schedule
- The standard Shingrix schedule is two doses given 2–6 months apart (minimum 4‑week interval). 1
- For immunocompromised adults ≥ 18 years who require a shorter interval, the second dose may be administered 1–2 months after the first dose. 2
- If a dose is administered before the minimum 4‑week interval, the dose should be repeated to ensure adequate immunogenicity. 1
Contraindications & Safety
- Pregnancy is a primary contraindication; Shingrix should be delayed until after pregnancy if vaccination is otherwise indicated. 1
- Unlike the live‑attenuated vaccine, Shingrix is not contraindicated in immunocompromised individuals, including those with HIV infection and CD4 < 200 cells/µL. 1
Immunocompromised Considerations
- Shingrix should not be withheld from immunocompromised health‑care personnel because it is a non‑replicating recombinant vaccine and is safe in this group. 2