Shingles is a painful viral infection caused by the chickenpox virus. Anyone who has had chickenpox is at risk of developing shingles.
The shingles vaccine reduces your risk of getting the shingles infection and, if you do get shingles, it reduces the chance of developing complications.
Vaccination against shingles is available to all New Zealanders over 50 years old, and free for those over 65. You are eligible to get a free shingles vaccination for 12 months once you turn 65.
This vaccination is not funded for all patients, so a fee may apply for this service.
