CDC Expects Shortage of New Shingles Vaccines

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is warning about a shortage of Shringrix, the newest shingles vaccine recommended for individuals 50 years and older, due to greater-than-expected demand. “It’s a really potent, excellent vaccine. I got it myself. And this is a vaccine where the old vaccine worked 30, 40 percent of the time. This is 97 percent of the time. And, remember, over a third of the population will get shingles, so this is something for everybody over the age of 50,” said David Agus, MD. “Even people who have the old vaccine need to get the new vaccine.”

Shingles is triggered by the chicken pox virus and causes a painful blistering rash along with possible complications, including searing nerve pain and pneumonia. Individuals are encouraged to get on the list to receive it. “Every week, [the company is] releasing more of [the vaccine], so get on the list. Figure out where it is. It’s not a critical shortage, but it’s a shortage,” said Dr. Agus.