Health chiefs are urging millions of older people to come forward for a free shingles vaccine, after fewer than half of those eligible came forward in the first year. The Shingrix For All vaccination programme offers two doses of the jab to anyone turning 65 or 70. It protects against the painful condition, which is caused by a reactivation of the chickenpox virus. The UK Health Security Agency said data showed 42.1% of those turning age 66, who had been eligible since their 65th birthday, had received their first Shingrix dose by October 2025.
Among those turning age 71 who have been eligible since turning 70, vaccine uptake coverage stands at 53.5%. Dr Julie Yates, the agency’s deputy director for immunisation programmes, said: “We understand people are busy, and it can be easy to put things off, but this is a vaccine that can make a real difference to your quality of life. If you are eligible and contacted by your GP, please don’t put it off — make that appointment.”
People aged between 70 and 80 should also have been offered a shingles vaccine as part of a catch-up programme.
Eligible people can check if they qualify and book a jab through their GP or at NHS.uk.
Dr Yates added: “Many of us will know someone who has suffered from shingles and spoken of just how painful it can be.
“Shingles can also have debilitating effects for months even after the rash has gone, and we know that two doses of this vaccine is highly effective in preventing shingles and its serious complications.”
The first signs of shingles include a tingling or painful feeling in an area of skin, a headache or feeling generally unwell.
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A rash will usually appear a few days later, often on the chest or abdomen.
Caroline Temmink, director of vaccinations at NHS England, said: “Shingles can be extremely dangerous for older adults and those with weakened immune systems.
“That’s why the NHS shingles vaccination programme was extended and now includes people turning 65 as well as those in their 70s and anyone aged 18 and over with a severely weakened immune system.
“Please check if you or a loved one has had their vaccine if they are eligible to help protect them from this painful and potentially serious condition.”