13 October 2021
The JCVI has released updated advice on the introduction of Shingrix to the shingles immunisation programme for some immunocompromised patients.
GPs are advised to offer non-live shingles vaccine Shingrix to all those eligible for shingles vaccination that are clinically contraindicated to receive the live vaccine (Zostavax) due to their immunocompromised status.
This means people in the 70-80-year old age group on certain types of immunosuppression should be preferentially offered the Shingrix vaccine over Zostavax. This will be offered to them via a proactive phone call.
There is now sufficient supply of the Shingrix vaccine to implement this advice. However, it's important it's not offered more widely to ensure enough supply remains for those who need to receive it.
Read updated advice