Shingles Vaccination for Individuals Without Prior Chickenpox

Introduction to Shingles Vaccination

The American College of Rheumatology recommends the recombinant zoster vaccine (Shingrix) for individuals who have never had chickenpox and are eligible for shingles vaccination based on age or risk factors 1

The recombinant zoster vaccine (Shingrix) is safe for immunocompromised patients, according to the European Crohn’s and Colitis Organisation 2
The live zoster vaccine (Zostavax) is contraindicated in immunocompromised patients, as stated by the European Crohn’s and Colitis Organisation 2

For individuals with no history of chickenpox, the recombinant zoster vaccine (Shingrix) is the preferred option for eligible individuals, as recommended by the American Gastroenterological Association and the American College of Rheumatology 1, 2
The live zoster vaccine (Zostavax) should be avoided in those without prior VZV exposure due to risk of vaccine-strain infection, according to the American College of Rheumatology 1

Immunocompromised patients aged 18 and over, particularly those starting JAK inhibitors, should receive the recombinant zoster vaccine (Shingrix), as recommended by the European Crohn’s and Colitis Organisation 2
The recombinant zoster vaccine (Shingrix) is recommended for all adults aged 50 years and over regardless of prior chickenpox history, according to the American Gastroenterological Association 2

The European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy recommends recombinant zoster vaccination (Shingrix) for all patients aged 50 or over receiving any immunomodulators or advanced therapies 3
Patients aged 18 and over starting JAK inhibitors should receive Shingrix regardless of age, as recommended by the European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy 3
For individuals with no chickenpox history and who are varicella antibody negative, live varicella vaccination can be considered if they're not on immunosuppressive therapy, according to the European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy 3

The European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy suggests that recombinant zoster vaccination (Shingrix) should be considered for immunocompromised patients aged 50 or over, or those starting JAK inhibitors at any age 3