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Medically reviewed

Last updated: 25 September 2026

Shingles vaccine

Medically reviewed

Last updated: 25 September 2026

The shingles vaccine is the only way to prevent shingles and the prolonged nerve pain it can cause. Approximately one in three people in Finland will develop shingles during their lifetime. If you have had chickenpox, you may develop shingles later in life. The risk of developing shingles increases significantly after the age of 50. More than half of people who develop shingles experience severe nerve pain, which can persist for months or even years. Another significant complication is an eye infection, which can cause permanent damage and affect vision. The shingles vaccine is recommended for everyone over the age of 50 to help prevent shingles. The vaccine is also suitable for people aged 18–49 who have an increased risk of developing shingles due to an underlying medical condition or medication.
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Shingles vaccination schedule


The vaccination series consists of two doses. The second dose is given 2–6 months after the first dose. The vaccine provides good, long-lasting protection against shingles and prolonged nerve pain. There is currently no information indicating a need for booster doses.

The vaccine is recommended for everyone over the age of 50, as well as for people aged 18–49 who have a weakened immune system due to a medical condition or medication and are therefore at increased risk of developing shingles.

The vaccine is also recommended for people who have previously received the older, single-dose shingles vaccine.

How long does the shingles vaccine provide protection?


Two doses of the newer shingles vaccine provide excellent protection against shingles and prolonged nerve pain. In a study of adults aged 50–69 with normally functioning immune systems, the vaccine provided 97% protection against shingles. Among people over the age of 70, the efficacy was 91%. The protection is known to remain good for at least 11 years. Over time, we will gain more information about how long the protection lasts.

A live attenuated shingles vaccine was previously available in Finland. The older vaccine provided clearly weaker and shorter-lasting protection against shingles. We therefore recommend that everyone who has received the old, single-dose shingles vaccine also receives the newer shingles vaccine.

Side effects of the shingles vaccine


Some people may experience a reaction following vaccination. The most common reactions are local symptoms at the injection site, such as pain and redness. General symptoms such as tiredness, feeling unwell, nausea, fever or muscle pain may also occur. Vaccination reactions often develop within 24 hours of vaccination and usually last for 1–3 days.

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Risk factors for shingles


  • The immune system becomes weaker with age, significantly increasing the risk of developing shingles. This is why the shingles vaccine is recommended for everyone over the age of 50.
  • Medical conditions and medications that weaken the immune system can increase the risk of developing shingles at a younger age.
  • Other factors, such as stress, may also play a role in triggering shingles.
  • In some cases, it is not possible to identify a specific reason why shingles develops.


What causes shingles?


  • Shingles is a blistering rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus. The same virus also causes chickenpox.
  • After you have had chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in nerve cells near the spinal cord. The virus can later reactivate and cause shingles.
  • Anyone who has had chickenpox can develop shingles, but the risk increases significantly with age.

Sources: Our medical experts, terveyskirjasto, Duodecim-lehti and GSK

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Basic vaccines

Adults may need some vaccines or booster doses depending on age, place of residence, and lifestyle.

TBE vaccine

Ticks carry two diseases that can be dangerous to humans: Lyme disease, caused by bacteria, and tick-borne encephalitis (TBE), a viral disease.

RSV vaccine

The RSV vaccine is recommended for everyone over 50 years of age and those over 18 years of age in risk groups.

Travel health

When planning a trip, it is important to remember that vaccinations should be taken well in advance.

Why choose Rokotepalvelu?


Rokotepalvelu is one of Finland’s leading private vaccination service providers. We operate in several cities with our vaccination clinics and mobile vaccination buses, making it easy for you to access vaccinations when and where you need them. Our vaccination and travel health specialists help ensure you receive the right protection for your needs. You’re welcome to visit us in the way that suits you best – with or without an appointment.
  • Always qualified healthcare professionals
  • Specialists in vaccinating children and people with needle anxiety
  • We record all vaccinations in Omakanta and send reminders for upcoming vaccinations
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