Coronavirus prep
Replies
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lynn_glenmont wrote: »lynn_glenmont wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »yes, interesting difference.
Even back in March/April when flu vaccines were at their peak here - ie just before southern hemisphere winter - one week gap was the thing.
was 2 week gap initially but then reduced to 1.
Sometimes inconvenient for people but that's what it is.
(shingles vaccine may be different in US recomendations because it is a live vaccine - the others are not)
Our shingles vaccine (US) is inactivated.
In that case I can't think of any reason why other vaccines are considered OK with covid vaccine but shingles vaccine is not.
I'm not sure...it might not be a medical reason, but more of a comfort issue.
Very few people I know have ever had a noticeable reaction to a flu vaccine. But almost everyone I know has had some sort of reaction (mild to severe) from the COVID and shingles vaccines.
That's just a personal observation.
That hasn't been my observation - and I give a lot of vaccines in my job.
Hasn't been any more local reactions in covid or shingles vs flu vaccines
Hmmm...again, just my personal observations...
My workplace provides flu vaccines every year, and most employees take them.
Over the years, I've heard one or two of my co-workers say they were a little tired or sore the next day.
All of my co-workers have now been vaccinated for COVID (by mandate). Well over half talked about moderate to severe reactions....fevers, headaches, exhaustion, etc. Very few people said they had little to no reaction.
In my little world, it's a very stark difference between the two vaccines.
That's interesting.
Many people I know have had no reaction to the covid vac or minor reactions only - not everyone, and I haven't kept statistics to say what percentage - but many people.
Not heard of anyone having issues with shingles vaccine here.
And the starting point of all this wasn't whether covid vac causes reactions but why other vaccines, in US, can be given co currently with covid vac but shingles cannot.
Are you certain that the shingles vax where you are is the same as in countries others are reporting from?
I know nothing about vaccines, but understand that sometimes the recommended or available ones can differ by nation.
Background reason for asking: The "old" shingles vax in the US - a zoster live vaccine (ZVL, Zostavax) had no significant reputation for unusual side effects, among those I know. The newer one, a recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV, Shingrix) has quite a reputation among people I know for side effects - not super severe, but the pretty-unpleasant soreness, swelling, fever, etc. - perhaps especially after the second shot.
Yeah I am scared to get the shingles vaccine (although I do want it) because I have heard the side effects are nasty - worse than the Covid vaccine. I guess I thought it was just common knowledge that it gives a bad reaction.
Both my husband and I had our first ever flu shot in the fall, and both Covid shots. Covid shots were definitely worse reactions (although not super severe for either of us.)
I can't imagine risking shingles (which you can't even avoid by not mixing with other people, since the virus is lying dormant in your body) and its potential for months or even years of pain for fear of the brief discomfort of the recombinant shingles vaccine.
I was so glad when I was finally able to get the shingles vaccine. When I first thought about it, I was told I was too young, then I was told I had to get a prescription from my doctor, then none of the pharmacies I went to had it in stock .... I'd say it took close to five years from when I first started thinking about it to get the vaccine. No, I wasn't devoting massive amounts of time and energy to trying to get it, but at least several times a year I would stop by a pharmacy that listed it as available only to run into roadblock. I've known people who had really bad cases of shingles that deeply impacted their quality of life, so it was a real relief to get the vaccine, despite the soreness, headache, and fatigue. It only lasted one to two days.
I am going to get it. I had the prescription a couple of years ago but when I went to fill it it was expensive (like $400) so I decided to wait until it was covered - which I think is 60 here. Then two people in my 6 person office got shingles within weeks of each other so I decided I should get it. But now I have looked into it more and it apparently doesn't last that long - they are saying people who get it younger than 60 might not be protected later in life when the risk of shingles complications is higher. So on the fence as to whether I should wait 4 more years.
How old were you when you got it? I am 56.
I was 58. Not sure where you are or which vaccine they're using in your area. I had the two-dose Shingrix vaccine. I hadn't realized until checking just now that its effectiveness can fade after four years, but for some reason the CDC doesn't recommend subsequent boosters. That doesn't seem to make much sense.
It is Shingrix they give here now - it is only covered by the public health plan if you are between 65-70. I guess the waning immunity is why they limit to those ages, they want people to get it when they are most likely to need it.
FWIW, when I got shingles while in . . . hmm, 30s/40s? . . . they told me that younger people typically have milder cases than older people, though of course there are exceptions. If true, perhaps that's also part of the picture?lynn_glenmont wrote: »lynn_glenmont wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »yes, interesting difference.
Even back in March/April when flu vaccines were at their peak here - ie just before southern hemisphere winter - one week gap was the thing.
was 2 week gap initially but then reduced to 1.
Sometimes inconvenient for people but that's what it is.
(shingles vaccine may be different in US recomendations because it is a live vaccine - the others are not)
Our shingles vaccine (US) is inactivated.
In that case I can't think of any reason why other vaccines are considered OK with covid vaccine but shingles vaccine is not.
I'm not sure...it might not be a medical reason, but more of a comfort issue.
Very few people I know have ever had a noticeable reaction to a flu vaccine. But almost everyone I know has had some sort of reaction (mild to severe) from the COVID and shingles vaccines.
That's just a personal observation.
That hasn't been my observation - and I give a lot of vaccines in my job.
Hasn't been any more local reactions in covid or shingles vs flu vaccines
Hmmm...again, just my personal observations...
My workplace provides flu vaccines every year, and most employees take them.
Over the years, I've heard one or two of my co-workers say they were a little tired or sore the next day.
All of my co-workers have now been vaccinated for COVID (by mandate). Well over half talked about moderate to severe reactions....fevers, headaches, exhaustion, etc. Very few people said they had little to no reaction.
In my little world, it's a very stark difference between the two vaccines.
That's interesting.
Many people I know have had no reaction to the covid vac or minor reactions only - not everyone, and I haven't kept statistics to say what percentage - but many people.
Not heard of anyone having issues with shingles vaccine here.
And the starting point of all this wasn't whether covid vac causes reactions but why other vaccines, in US, can be given co currently with covid vac but shingles cannot.
Are you certain that the shingles vax where you are is the same as in countries others are reporting from?
I know nothing about vaccines, but understand that sometimes the recommended or available ones can differ by nation.
Background reason for asking: The "old" shingles vax in the US - a zoster live vaccine (ZVL, Zostavax) had no significant reputation for unusual side effects, among those I know. The newer one, a recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV, Shingrix) has quite a reputation among people I know for side effects - not super severe, but the pretty-unpleasant soreness, swelling, fever, etc. - perhaps especially after the second shot.
Yeah I am scared to get the shingles vaccine (although I do want it) because I have heard the side effects are nasty - worse than the Covid vaccine. I guess I thought it was just common knowledge that it gives a bad reaction.
Both my husband and I had our first ever flu shot in the fall, and both Covid shots. Covid shots were definitely worse reactions (although not super severe for either of us.)
I can't imagine risking shingles (which you can't even avoid by not mixing with other people, since the virus is lying dormant in your body) and its potential for months or even years of pain for fear of the brief discomfort of the recombinant shingles vaccine.
I was so glad when I was finally able to get the shingles vaccine. When I first thought about it, I was told I was too young, then I was told I had to get a prescription from my doctor, then none of the pharmacies I went to had it in stock .... I'd say it took close to five years from when I first started thinking about it to get the vaccine. No, I wasn't devoting massive amounts of time and energy to trying to get it, but at least several times a year I would stop by a pharmacy that listed it as available only to run into roadblock. I've known people who had really bad cases of shingles that deeply impacted their quality of life, so it was a real relief to get the vaccine, despite the soreness, headache, and fatigue. It only lasted one to two days.
I am going to get it. I had the prescription a couple of years ago but when I went to fill it it was expensive (like $400) so I decided to wait until it was covered - which I think is 60 here. Then two people in my 6 person office got shingles within weeks of each other so I decided I should get it. But now I have looked into it more and it apparently doesn't last that long - they are saying people who get it younger than 60 might not be protected later in life when the risk of shingles complications is higher. So on the fence as to whether I should wait 4 more years.
How old were you when you got it? I am 56.
I was 58. Not sure where you are or which vaccine they're using in your area. I had the two-dose Shingrix vaccine. I hadn't realized until checking just now that its effectiveness can fade after four years, but for some reason the CDC doesn't recommend subsequent boosters. That doesn't seem to make much sense.
It is Shingrix they give here now - it is only covered by the public health plan if you are between 65-70. I guess the waning immunity is why they limit to those ages, they want people to get it when they are most likely to need it.
FWIW, when I got shingles while in . . . hmm, 30s/40s? . . . they told me that younger people typically have milder cases than older people, though of course there are exceptions. If true, perhaps that's also part of the picture?
Yeah for sure - that's what I meant. Older people get worse cases, so if they give it too young (when people are less likely to have a bad case) then by the time you might need it more the vaccine immunity is waning already.
But having said that - I don't know why they don't just give a booster every few years? I don't know enough about it but I would speculate it is a cost thing, if very few people get a bad case when they are younger (and since it isn't contagious) doesn't make financial sense from a public health perspective to fund primary series then boosters.
Shingrix has only been approved for use in the U.S. since 2017 so I don't know how they could be recommending boosters at four years yet when it's just been four years it's been in use. I'm sure there will be future directives if supposed efficacy is stated at four years AND if there are a number of breakthrough infections that start showing up. The literature says they expect it to last longer than the four years. But ya know...pesky data.6 -
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/03/180307095243.htm"We anticipate that this protection will actually last much, much longer. We are now measuring the efficacy of the vaccine over the next 10 years and are very optimistic about the results," he said.
March, 20185 -
cmriverside wrote: »lynn_glenmont wrote: »lynn_glenmont wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »yes, interesting difference.
Even back in March/April when flu vaccines were at their peak here - ie just before southern hemisphere winter - one week gap was the thing.
was 2 week gap initially but then reduced to 1.
Sometimes inconvenient for people but that's what it is.
(shingles vaccine may be different in US recomendations because it is a live vaccine - the others are not)
Our shingles vaccine (US) is inactivated.
In that case I can't think of any reason why other vaccines are considered OK with covid vaccine but shingles vaccine is not.
I'm not sure...it might not be a medical reason, but more of a comfort issue.
Very few people I know have ever had a noticeable reaction to a flu vaccine. But almost everyone I know has had some sort of reaction (mild to severe) from the COVID and shingles vaccines.
That's just a personal observation.
That hasn't been my observation - and I give a lot of vaccines in my job.
Hasn't been any more local reactions in covid or shingles vs flu vaccines
Hmmm...again, just my personal observations...
My workplace provides flu vaccines every year, and most employees take them.
Over the years, I've heard one or two of my co-workers say they were a little tired or sore the next day.
All of my co-workers have now been vaccinated for COVID (by mandate). Well over half talked about moderate to severe reactions....fevers, headaches, exhaustion, etc. Very few people said they had little to no reaction.
In my little world, it's a very stark difference between the two vaccines.
That's interesting.
Many people I know have had no reaction to the covid vac or minor reactions only - not everyone, and I haven't kept statistics to say what percentage - but many people.
Not heard of anyone having issues with shingles vaccine here.
And the starting point of all this wasn't whether covid vac causes reactions but why other vaccines, in US, can be given co currently with covid vac but shingles cannot.
Are you certain that the shingles vax where you are is the same as in countries others are reporting from?
I know nothing about vaccines, but understand that sometimes the recommended or available ones can differ by nation.
Background reason for asking: The "old" shingles vax in the US - a zoster live vaccine (ZVL, Zostavax) had no significant reputation for unusual side effects, among those I know. The newer one, a recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV, Shingrix) has quite a reputation among people I know for side effects - not super severe, but the pretty-unpleasant soreness, swelling, fever, etc. - perhaps especially after the second shot.
Yeah I am scared to get the shingles vaccine (although I do want it) because I have heard the side effects are nasty - worse than the Covid vaccine. I guess I thought it was just common knowledge that it gives a bad reaction.
Both my husband and I had our first ever flu shot in the fall, and both Covid shots. Covid shots were definitely worse reactions (although not super severe for either of us.)
I can't imagine risking shingles (which you can't even avoid by not mixing with other people, since the virus is lying dormant in your body) and its potential for months or even years of pain for fear of the brief discomfort of the recombinant shingles vaccine.
I was so glad when I was finally able to get the shingles vaccine. When I first thought about it, I was told I was too young, then I was told I had to get a prescription from my doctor, then none of the pharmacies I went to had it in stock .... I'd say it took close to five years from when I first started thinking about it to get the vaccine. No, I wasn't devoting massive amounts of time and energy to trying to get it, but at least several times a year I would stop by a pharmacy that listed it as available only to run into roadblock. I've known people who had really bad cases of shingles that deeply impacted their quality of life, so it was a real relief to get the vaccine, despite the soreness, headache, and fatigue. It only lasted one to two days.
I am going to get it. I had the prescription a couple of years ago but when I went to fill it it was expensive (like $400) so I decided to wait until it was covered - which I think is 60 here. Then two people in my 6 person office got shingles within weeks of each other so I decided I should get it. But now I have looked into it more and it apparently doesn't last that long - they are saying people who get it younger than 60 might not be protected later in life when the risk of shingles complications is higher. So on the fence as to whether I should wait 4 more years.
How old were you when you got it? I am 56.
I was 58. Not sure where you are or which vaccine they're using in your area. I had the two-dose Shingrix vaccine. I hadn't realized until checking just now that its effectiveness can fade after four years, but for some reason the CDC doesn't recommend subsequent boosters. That doesn't seem to make much sense.
It is Shingrix they give here now - it is only covered by the public health plan if you are between 65-70. I guess the waning immunity is why they limit to those ages, they want people to get it when they are most likely to need it.
FWIW, when I got shingles while in . . . hmm, 30s/40s? . . . they told me that younger people typically have milder cases than older people, though of course there are exceptions. If true, perhaps that's also part of the picture?lynn_glenmont wrote: »lynn_glenmont wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »yes, interesting difference.
Even back in March/April when flu vaccines were at their peak here - ie just before southern hemisphere winter - one week gap was the thing.
was 2 week gap initially but then reduced to 1.
Sometimes inconvenient for people but that's what it is.
(shingles vaccine may be different in US recomendations because it is a live vaccine - the others are not)
Our shingles vaccine (US) is inactivated.
In that case I can't think of any reason why other vaccines are considered OK with covid vaccine but shingles vaccine is not.
I'm not sure...it might not be a medical reason, but more of a comfort issue.
Very few people I know have ever had a noticeable reaction to a flu vaccine. But almost everyone I know has had some sort of reaction (mild to severe) from the COVID and shingles vaccines.
That's just a personal observation.
That hasn't been my observation - and I give a lot of vaccines in my job.
Hasn't been any more local reactions in covid or shingles vs flu vaccines
Hmmm...again, just my personal observations...
My workplace provides flu vaccines every year, and most employees take them.
Over the years, I've heard one or two of my co-workers say they were a little tired or sore the next day.
All of my co-workers have now been vaccinated for COVID (by mandate). Well over half talked about moderate to severe reactions....fevers, headaches, exhaustion, etc. Very few people said they had little to no reaction.
In my little world, it's a very stark difference between the two vaccines.
That's interesting.
Many people I know have had no reaction to the covid vac or minor reactions only - not everyone, and I haven't kept statistics to say what percentage - but many people.
Not heard of anyone having issues with shingles vaccine here.
And the starting point of all this wasn't whether covid vac causes reactions but why other vaccines, in US, can be given co currently with covid vac but shingles cannot.
Are you certain that the shingles vax where you are is the same as in countries others are reporting from?
I know nothing about vaccines, but understand that sometimes the recommended or available ones can differ by nation.
Background reason for asking: The "old" shingles vax in the US - a zoster live vaccine (ZVL, Zostavax) had no significant reputation for unusual side effects, among those I know. The newer one, a recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV, Shingrix) has quite a reputation among people I know for side effects - not super severe, but the pretty-unpleasant soreness, swelling, fever, etc. - perhaps especially after the second shot.
Yeah I am scared to get the shingles vaccine (although I do want it) because I have heard the side effects are nasty - worse than the Covid vaccine. I guess I thought it was just common knowledge that it gives a bad reaction.
Both my husband and I had our first ever flu shot in the fall, and both Covid shots. Covid shots were definitely worse reactions (although not super severe for either of us.)
I can't imagine risking shingles (which you can't even avoid by not mixing with other people, since the virus is lying dormant in your body) and its potential for months or even years of pain for fear of the brief discomfort of the recombinant shingles vaccine.
I was so glad when I was finally able to get the shingles vaccine. When I first thought about it, I was told I was too young, then I was told I had to get a prescription from my doctor, then none of the pharmacies I went to had it in stock .... I'd say it took close to five years from when I first started thinking about it to get the vaccine. No, I wasn't devoting massive amounts of time and energy to trying to get it, but at least several times a year I would stop by a pharmacy that listed it as available only to run into roadblock. I've known people who had really bad cases of shingles that deeply impacted their quality of life, so it was a real relief to get the vaccine, despite the soreness, headache, and fatigue. It only lasted one to two days.
I am going to get it. I had the prescription a couple of years ago but when I went to fill it it was expensive (like $400) so I decided to wait until it was covered - which I think is 60 here. Then two people in my 6 person office got shingles within weeks of each other so I decided I should get it. But now I have looked into it more and it apparently doesn't last that long - they are saying people who get it younger than 60 might not be protected later in life when the risk of shingles complications is higher. So on the fence as to whether I should wait 4 more years.
How old were you when you got it? I am 56.
I was 58. Not sure where you are or which vaccine they're using in your area. I had the two-dose Shingrix vaccine. I hadn't realized until checking just now that its effectiveness can fade after four years, but for some reason the CDC doesn't recommend subsequent boosters. That doesn't seem to make much sense.
It is Shingrix they give here now - it is only covered by the public health plan if you are between 65-70. I guess the waning immunity is why they limit to those ages, they want people to get it when they are most likely to need it.
FWIW, when I got shingles while in . . . hmm, 30s/40s? . . . they told me that younger people typically have milder cases than older people, though of course there are exceptions. If true, perhaps that's also part of the picture?
Yeah for sure - that's what I meant. Older people get worse cases, so if they give it too young (when people are less likely to have a bad case) then by the time you might need it more the vaccine immunity is waning already.
But having said that - I don't know why they don't just give a booster every few years? I don't know enough about it but I would speculate it is a cost thing, if very few people get a bad case when they are younger (and since it isn't contagious) doesn't make financial sense from a public health perspective to fund primary series then boosters.
Shingrix has only been approved for use in the U.S. since 2017 so I don't know how they could be recommending boosters at four years yet when it's just been four years it's been in use. I'm sure there will be future directives if supposed efficacy is stated at four years AND if there are a number of breakthrough infections that start showing up. The literature says they expect it to last longer than the four years. But ya know...pesky data.
Does anybody know if the four years is based on observed shingles cases in vaccinated subjects in long-term trials, or is it just that they can't make claims for efficacy beyond four years because they don't have sufficient trial data beyond four years?1 -
cmriverside wrote: »lynn_glenmont wrote: »lynn_glenmont wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »yes, interesting difference.
Even back in March/April when flu vaccines were at their peak here - ie just before southern hemisphere winter - one week gap was the thing.
was 2 week gap initially but then reduced to 1.
Sometimes inconvenient for people but that's what it is.
(shingles vaccine may be different in US recomendations because it is a live vaccine - the others are not)
Our shingles vaccine (US) is inactivated.
In that case I can't think of any reason why other vaccines are considered OK with covid vaccine but shingles vaccine is not.
I'm not sure...it might not be a medical reason, but more of a comfort issue.
Very few people I know have ever had a noticeable reaction to a flu vaccine. But almost everyone I know has had some sort of reaction (mild to severe) from the COVID and shingles vaccines.
That's just a personal observation.
That hasn't been my observation - and I give a lot of vaccines in my job.
Hasn't been any more local reactions in covid or shingles vs flu vaccines
Hmmm...again, just my personal observations...
My workplace provides flu vaccines every year, and most employees take them.
Over the years, I've heard one or two of my co-workers say they were a little tired or sore the next day.
All of my co-workers have now been vaccinated for COVID (by mandate). Well over half talked about moderate to severe reactions....fevers, headaches, exhaustion, etc. Very few people said they had little to no reaction.
In my little world, it's a very stark difference between the two vaccines.
That's interesting.
Many people I know have had no reaction to the covid vac or minor reactions only - not everyone, and I haven't kept statistics to say what percentage - but many people.
Not heard of anyone having issues with shingles vaccine here.
And the starting point of all this wasn't whether covid vac causes reactions but why other vaccines, in US, can be given co currently with covid vac but shingles cannot.
Are you certain that the shingles vax where you are is the same as in countries others are reporting from?
I know nothing about vaccines, but understand that sometimes the recommended or available ones can differ by nation.
Background reason for asking: The "old" shingles vax in the US - a zoster live vaccine (ZVL, Zostavax) had no significant reputation for unusual side effects, among those I know. The newer one, a recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV, Shingrix) has quite a reputation among people I know for side effects - not super severe, but the pretty-unpleasant soreness, swelling, fever, etc. - perhaps especially after the second shot.
Yeah I am scared to get the shingles vaccine (although I do want it) because I have heard the side effects are nasty - worse than the Covid vaccine. I guess I thought it was just common knowledge that it gives a bad reaction.
Both my husband and I had our first ever flu shot in the fall, and both Covid shots. Covid shots were definitely worse reactions (although not super severe for either of us.)
I can't imagine risking shingles (which you can't even avoid by not mixing with other people, since the virus is lying dormant in your body) and its potential for months or even years of pain for fear of the brief discomfort of the recombinant shingles vaccine.
I was so glad when I was finally able to get the shingles vaccine. When I first thought about it, I was told I was too young, then I was told I had to get a prescription from my doctor, then none of the pharmacies I went to had it in stock .... I'd say it took close to five years from when I first started thinking about it to get the vaccine. No, I wasn't devoting massive amounts of time and energy to trying to get it, but at least several times a year I would stop by a pharmacy that listed it as available only to run into roadblock. I've known people who had really bad cases of shingles that deeply impacted their quality of life, so it was a real relief to get the vaccine, despite the soreness, headache, and fatigue. It only lasted one to two days.
I am going to get it. I had the prescription a couple of years ago but when I went to fill it it was expensive (like $400) so I decided to wait until it was covered - which I think is 60 here. Then two people in my 6 person office got shingles within weeks of each other so I decided I should get it. But now I have looked into it more and it apparently doesn't last that long - they are saying people who get it younger than 60 might not be protected later in life when the risk of shingles complications is higher. So on the fence as to whether I should wait 4 more years.
How old were you when you got it? I am 56.
I was 58. Not sure where you are or which vaccine they're using in your area. I had the two-dose Shingrix vaccine. I hadn't realized until checking just now that its effectiveness can fade after four years, but for some reason the CDC doesn't recommend subsequent boosters. That doesn't seem to make much sense.
It is Shingrix they give here now - it is only covered by the public health plan if you are between 65-70. I guess the waning immunity is why they limit to those ages, they want people to get it when they are most likely to need it.
FWIW, when I got shingles while in . . . hmm, 30s/40s? . . . they told me that younger people typically have milder cases than older people, though of course there are exceptions. If true, perhaps that's also part of the picture?lynn_glenmont wrote: »lynn_glenmont wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »yes, interesting difference.
Even back in March/April when flu vaccines were at their peak here - ie just before southern hemisphere winter - one week gap was the thing.
was 2 week gap initially but then reduced to 1.
Sometimes inconvenient for people but that's what it is.
(shingles vaccine may be different in US recomendations because it is a live vaccine - the others are not)
Our shingles vaccine (US) is inactivated.
In that case I can't think of any reason why other vaccines are considered OK with covid vaccine but shingles vaccine is not.
I'm not sure...it might not be a medical reason, but more of a comfort issue.
Very few people I know have ever had a noticeable reaction to a flu vaccine. But almost everyone I know has had some sort of reaction (mild to severe) from the COVID and shingles vaccines.
That's just a personal observation.
That hasn't been my observation - and I give a lot of vaccines in my job.
Hasn't been any more local reactions in covid or shingles vs flu vaccines
Hmmm...again, just my personal observations...
My workplace provides flu vaccines every year, and most employees take them.
Over the years, I've heard one or two of my co-workers say they were a little tired or sore the next day.
All of my co-workers have now been vaccinated for COVID (by mandate). Well over half talked about moderate to severe reactions....fevers, headaches, exhaustion, etc. Very few people said they had little to no reaction.
In my little world, it's a very stark difference between the two vaccines.
That's interesting.
Many people I know have had no reaction to the covid vac or minor reactions only - not everyone, and I haven't kept statistics to say what percentage - but many people.
Not heard of anyone having issues with shingles vaccine here.
And the starting point of all this wasn't whether covid vac causes reactions but why other vaccines, in US, can be given co currently with covid vac but shingles cannot.
Are you certain that the shingles vax where you are is the same as in countries others are reporting from?
I know nothing about vaccines, but understand that sometimes the recommended or available ones can differ by nation.
Background reason for asking: The "old" shingles vax in the US - a zoster live vaccine (ZVL, Zostavax) had no significant reputation for unusual side effects, among those I know. The newer one, a recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV, Shingrix) has quite a reputation among people I know for side effects - not super severe, but the pretty-unpleasant soreness, swelling, fever, etc. - perhaps especially after the second shot.
Yeah I am scared to get the shingles vaccine (although I do want it) because I have heard the side effects are nasty - worse than the Covid vaccine. I guess I thought it was just common knowledge that it gives a bad reaction.
Both my husband and I had our first ever flu shot in the fall, and both Covid shots. Covid shots were definitely worse reactions (although not super severe for either of us.)
I can't imagine risking shingles (which you can't even avoid by not mixing with other people, since the virus is lying dormant in your body) and its potential for months or even years of pain for fear of the brief discomfort of the recombinant shingles vaccine.
I was so glad when I was finally able to get the shingles vaccine. When I first thought about it, I was told I was too young, then I was told I had to get a prescription from my doctor, then none of the pharmacies I went to had it in stock .... I'd say it took close to five years from when I first started thinking about it to get the vaccine. No, I wasn't devoting massive amounts of time and energy to trying to get it, but at least several times a year I would stop by a pharmacy that listed it as available only to run into roadblock. I've known people who had really bad cases of shingles that deeply impacted their quality of life, so it was a real relief to get the vaccine, despite the soreness, headache, and fatigue. It only lasted one to two days.
I am going to get it. I had the prescription a couple of years ago but when I went to fill it it was expensive (like $400) so I decided to wait until it was covered - which I think is 60 here. Then two people in my 6 person office got shingles within weeks of each other so I decided I should get it. But now I have looked into it more and it apparently doesn't last that long - they are saying people who get it younger than 60 might not be protected later in life when the risk of shingles complications is higher. So on the fence as to whether I should wait 4 more years.
How old were you when you got it? I am 56.
I was 58. Not sure where you are or which vaccine they're using in your area. I had the two-dose Shingrix vaccine. I hadn't realized until checking just now that its effectiveness can fade after four years, but for some reason the CDC doesn't recommend subsequent boosters. That doesn't seem to make much sense.
It is Shingrix they give here now - it is only covered by the public health plan if you are between 65-70. I guess the waning immunity is why they limit to those ages, they want people to get it when they are most likely to need it.
FWIW, when I got shingles while in . . . hmm, 30s/40s? . . . they told me that younger people typically have milder cases than older people, though of course there are exceptions. If true, perhaps that's also part of the picture?
Yeah for sure - that's what I meant. Older people get worse cases, so if they give it too young (when people are less likely to have a bad case) then by the time you might need it more the vaccine immunity is waning already.
But having said that - I don't know why they don't just give a booster every few years? I don't know enough about it but I would speculate it is a cost thing, if very few people get a bad case when they are younger (and since it isn't contagious) doesn't make financial sense from a public health perspective to fund primary series then boosters.
Shingrix has only been approved for use in the U.S. since 2017 so I don't know how they could be recommending boosters at four years yet when it's just been four years it's been in use. I'm sure there will be future directives if supposed efficacy is stated at four years AND if there are a number of breakthrough infections that start showing up. The literature says they expect it to last longer than the four years. But ya know...pesky data.
Oh I don't know that much about vaccine manufacture and testing, I guess I assumed they would have the efficacy data from long term trials before they approved the vaccine for use. I know the Covid vaccine was rushed through but I thought that most other vaccines had full data on efficacy duration before they were introduced into general use. And I didn't realize it was a brand new vaccine.
At any rate it does make it difficult for one to decide the best route to go if the data isn't in yet.2 -
cmriverside wrote: »lynn_glenmont wrote: »lynn_glenmont wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »yes, interesting difference.
Even back in March/April when flu vaccines were at their peak here - ie just before southern hemisphere winter - one week gap was the thing.
was 2 week gap initially but then reduced to 1.
Sometimes inconvenient for people but that's what it is.
(shingles vaccine may be different in US recomendations because it is a live vaccine - the others are not)
Our shingles vaccine (US) is inactivated.
In that case I can't think of any reason why other vaccines are considered OK with covid vaccine but shingles vaccine is not.
I'm not sure...it might not be a medical reason, but more of a comfort issue.
Very few people I know have ever had a noticeable reaction to a flu vaccine. But almost everyone I know has had some sort of reaction (mild to severe) from the COVID and shingles vaccines.
That's just a personal observation.
That hasn't been my observation - and I give a lot of vaccines in my job.
Hasn't been any more local reactions in covid or shingles vs flu vaccines
Hmmm...again, just my personal observations...
My workplace provides flu vaccines every year, and most employees take them.
Over the years, I've heard one or two of my co-workers say they were a little tired or sore the next day.
All of my co-workers have now been vaccinated for COVID (by mandate). Well over half talked about moderate to severe reactions....fevers, headaches, exhaustion, etc. Very few people said they had little to no reaction.
In my little world, it's a very stark difference between the two vaccines.
That's interesting.
Many people I know have had no reaction to the covid vac or minor reactions only - not everyone, and I haven't kept statistics to say what percentage - but many people.
Not heard of anyone having issues with shingles vaccine here.
And the starting point of all this wasn't whether covid vac causes reactions but why other vaccines, in US, can be given co currently with covid vac but shingles cannot.
Are you certain that the shingles vax where you are is the same as in countries others are reporting from?
I know nothing about vaccines, but understand that sometimes the recommended or available ones can differ by nation.
Background reason for asking: The "old" shingles vax in the US - a zoster live vaccine (ZVL, Zostavax) had no significant reputation for unusual side effects, among those I know. The newer one, a recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV, Shingrix) has quite a reputation among people I know for side effects - not super severe, but the pretty-unpleasant soreness, swelling, fever, etc. - perhaps especially after the second shot.
Yeah I am scared to get the shingles vaccine (although I do want it) because I have heard the side effects are nasty - worse than the Covid vaccine. I guess I thought it was just common knowledge that it gives a bad reaction.
Both my husband and I had our first ever flu shot in the fall, and both Covid shots. Covid shots were definitely worse reactions (although not super severe for either of us.)
I can't imagine risking shingles (which you can't even avoid by not mixing with other people, since the virus is lying dormant in your body) and its potential for months or even years of pain for fear of the brief discomfort of the recombinant shingles vaccine.
I was so glad when I was finally able to get the shingles vaccine. When I first thought about it, I was told I was too young, then I was told I had to get a prescription from my doctor, then none of the pharmacies I went to had it in stock .... I'd say it took close to five years from when I first started thinking about it to get the vaccine. No, I wasn't devoting massive amounts of time and energy to trying to get it, but at least several times a year I would stop by a pharmacy that listed it as available only to run into roadblock. I've known people who had really bad cases of shingles that deeply impacted their quality of life, so it was a real relief to get the vaccine, despite the soreness, headache, and fatigue. It only lasted one to two days.
I am going to get it. I had the prescription a couple of years ago but when I went to fill it it was expensive (like $400) so I decided to wait until it was covered - which I think is 60 here. Then two people in my 6 person office got shingles within weeks of each other so I decided I should get it. But now I have looked into it more and it apparently doesn't last that long - they are saying people who get it younger than 60 might not be protected later in life when the risk of shingles complications is higher. So on the fence as to whether I should wait 4 more years.
How old were you when you got it? I am 56.
I was 58. Not sure where you are or which vaccine they're using in your area. I had the two-dose Shingrix vaccine. I hadn't realized until checking just now that its effectiveness can fade after four years, but for some reason the CDC doesn't recommend subsequent boosters. That doesn't seem to make much sense.
It is Shingrix they give here now - it is only covered by the public health plan if you are between 65-70. I guess the waning immunity is why they limit to those ages, they want people to get it when they are most likely to need it.
FWIW, when I got shingles while in . . . hmm, 30s/40s? . . . they told me that younger people typically have milder cases than older people, though of course there are exceptions. If true, perhaps that's also part of the picture?lynn_glenmont wrote: »lynn_glenmont wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »yes, interesting difference.
Even back in March/April when flu vaccines were at their peak here - ie just before southern hemisphere winter - one week gap was the thing.
was 2 week gap initially but then reduced to 1.
Sometimes inconvenient for people but that's what it is.
(shingles vaccine may be different in US recomendations because it is a live vaccine - the others are not)
Our shingles vaccine (US) is inactivated.
In that case I can't think of any reason why other vaccines are considered OK with covid vaccine but shingles vaccine is not.
I'm not sure...it might not be a medical reason, but more of a comfort issue.
Very few people I know have ever had a noticeable reaction to a flu vaccine. But almost everyone I know has had some sort of reaction (mild to severe) from the COVID and shingles vaccines.
That's just a personal observation.
That hasn't been my observation - and I give a lot of vaccines in my job.
Hasn't been any more local reactions in covid or shingles vs flu vaccines
Hmmm...again, just my personal observations...
My workplace provides flu vaccines every year, and most employees take them.
Over the years, I've heard one or two of my co-workers say they were a little tired or sore the next day.
All of my co-workers have now been vaccinated for COVID (by mandate). Well over half talked about moderate to severe reactions....fevers, headaches, exhaustion, etc. Very few people said they had little to no reaction.
In my little world, it's a very stark difference between the two vaccines.
That's interesting.
Many people I know have had no reaction to the covid vac or minor reactions only - not everyone, and I haven't kept statistics to say what percentage - but many people.
Not heard of anyone having issues with shingles vaccine here.
And the starting point of all this wasn't whether covid vac causes reactions but why other vaccines, in US, can be given co currently with covid vac but shingles cannot.
Are you certain that the shingles vax where you are is the same as in countries others are reporting from?
I know nothing about vaccines, but understand that sometimes the recommended or available ones can differ by nation.
Background reason for asking: The "old" shingles vax in the US - a zoster live vaccine (ZVL, Zostavax) had no significant reputation for unusual side effects, among those I know. The newer one, a recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV, Shingrix) has quite a reputation among people I know for side effects - not super severe, but the pretty-unpleasant soreness, swelling, fever, etc. - perhaps especially after the second shot.
Yeah I am scared to get the shingles vaccine (although I do want it) because I have heard the side effects are nasty - worse than the Covid vaccine. I guess I thought it was just common knowledge that it gives a bad reaction.
Both my husband and I had our first ever flu shot in the fall, and both Covid shots. Covid shots were definitely worse reactions (although not super severe for either of us.)
I can't imagine risking shingles (which you can't even avoid by not mixing with other people, since the virus is lying dormant in your body) and its potential for months or even years of pain for fear of the brief discomfort of the recombinant shingles vaccine.
I was so glad when I was finally able to get the shingles vaccine. When I first thought about it, I was told I was too young, then I was told I had to get a prescription from my doctor, then none of the pharmacies I went to had it in stock .... I'd say it took close to five years from when I first started thinking about it to get the vaccine. No, I wasn't devoting massive amounts of time and energy to trying to get it, but at least several times a year I would stop by a pharmacy that listed it as available only to run into roadblock. I've known people who had really bad cases of shingles that deeply impacted their quality of life, so it was a real relief to get the vaccine, despite the soreness, headache, and fatigue. It only lasted one to two days.
I am going to get it. I had the prescription a couple of years ago but when I went to fill it it was expensive (like $400) so I decided to wait until it was covered - which I think is 60 here. Then two people in my 6 person office got shingles within weeks of each other so I decided I should get it. But now I have looked into it more and it apparently doesn't last that long - they are saying people who get it younger than 60 might not be protected later in life when the risk of shingles complications is higher. So on the fence as to whether I should wait 4 more years.
How old were you when you got it? I am 56.
I was 58. Not sure where you are or which vaccine they're using in your area. I had the two-dose Shingrix vaccine. I hadn't realized until checking just now that its effectiveness can fade after four years, but for some reason the CDC doesn't recommend subsequent boosters. That doesn't seem to make much sense.
It is Shingrix they give here now - it is only covered by the public health plan if you are between 65-70. I guess the waning immunity is why they limit to those ages, they want people to get it when they are most likely to need it.
FWIW, when I got shingles while in . . . hmm, 30s/40s? . . . they told me that younger people typically have milder cases than older people, though of course there are exceptions. If true, perhaps that's also part of the picture?
Yeah for sure - that's what I meant. Older people get worse cases, so if they give it too young (when people are less likely to have a bad case) then by the time you might need it more the vaccine immunity is waning already.
But having said that - I don't know why they don't just give a booster every few years? I don't know enough about it but I would speculate it is a cost thing, if very few people get a bad case when they are younger (and since it isn't contagious) doesn't make financial sense from a public health perspective to fund primary series then boosters.
Shingrix has only been approved for use in the U.S. since 2017 so I don't know how they could be recommending boosters at four years yet when it's just been four years it's been in use. I'm sure there will be future directives if supposed efficacy is stated at four years AND if there are a number of breakthrough infections that start showing up. The literature says they expect it to last longer than the four years. But ya know...pesky data.
Oh I don't know that much about vaccine manufacture and testing, I guess I assumed they would have the efficacy data from long term trials before they approved the vaccine for use. I know the Covid vaccine was rushed through but I thought that most other vaccines had full data on efficacy duration before they were introduced into general use. And I didn't realize it was a brand new vaccine.
At any rate it does make it difficult for one to decide the best route to go if the data isn't in yet.
I'm sure there would be a recommended booster at XX interval if it was indicated. I'd get the shots (I did already, in 2019) and then just follow future guidelines.0 -
cmriverside wrote: »cmriverside wrote: »lynn_glenmont wrote: »lynn_glenmont wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »yes, interesting difference.
Even back in March/April when flu vaccines were at their peak here - ie just before southern hemisphere winter - one week gap was the thing.
was 2 week gap initially but then reduced to 1.
Sometimes inconvenient for people but that's what it is.
(shingles vaccine may be different in US recomendations because it is a live vaccine - the others are not)
Our shingles vaccine (US) is inactivated.
In that case I can't think of any reason why other vaccines are considered OK with covid vaccine but shingles vaccine is not.
I'm not sure...it might not be a medical reason, but more of a comfort issue.
Very few people I know have ever had a noticeable reaction to a flu vaccine. But almost everyone I know has had some sort of reaction (mild to severe) from the COVID and shingles vaccines.
That's just a personal observation.
That hasn't been my observation - and I give a lot of vaccines in my job.
Hasn't been any more local reactions in covid or shingles vs flu vaccines
Hmmm...again, just my personal observations...
My workplace provides flu vaccines every year, and most employees take them.
Over the years, I've heard one or two of my co-workers say they were a little tired or sore the next day.
All of my co-workers have now been vaccinated for COVID (by mandate). Well over half talked about moderate to severe reactions....fevers, headaches, exhaustion, etc. Very few people said they had little to no reaction.
In my little world, it's a very stark difference between the two vaccines.
That's interesting.
Many people I know have had no reaction to the covid vac or minor reactions only - not everyone, and I haven't kept statistics to say what percentage - but many people.
Not heard of anyone having issues with shingles vaccine here.
And the starting point of all this wasn't whether covid vac causes reactions but why other vaccines, in US, can be given co currently with covid vac but shingles cannot.
Are you certain that the shingles vax where you are is the same as in countries others are reporting from?
I know nothing about vaccines, but understand that sometimes the recommended or available ones can differ by nation.
Background reason for asking: The "old" shingles vax in the US - a zoster live vaccine (ZVL, Zostavax) had no significant reputation for unusual side effects, among those I know. The newer one, a recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV, Shingrix) has quite a reputation among people I know for side effects - not super severe, but the pretty-unpleasant soreness, swelling, fever, etc. - perhaps especially after the second shot.
Yeah I am scared to get the shingles vaccine (although I do want it) because I have heard the side effects are nasty - worse than the Covid vaccine. I guess I thought it was just common knowledge that it gives a bad reaction.
Both my husband and I had our first ever flu shot in the fall, and both Covid shots. Covid shots were definitely worse reactions (although not super severe for either of us.)
I can't imagine risking shingles (which you can't even avoid by not mixing with other people, since the virus is lying dormant in your body) and its potential for months or even years of pain for fear of the brief discomfort of the recombinant shingles vaccine.
I was so glad when I was finally able to get the shingles vaccine. When I first thought about it, I was told I was too young, then I was told I had to get a prescription from my doctor, then none of the pharmacies I went to had it in stock .... I'd say it took close to five years from when I first started thinking about it to get the vaccine. No, I wasn't devoting massive amounts of time and energy to trying to get it, but at least several times a year I would stop by a pharmacy that listed it as available only to run into roadblock. I've known people who had really bad cases of shingles that deeply impacted their quality of life, so it was a real relief to get the vaccine, despite the soreness, headache, and fatigue. It only lasted one to two days.
I am going to get it. I had the prescription a couple of years ago but when I went to fill it it was expensive (like $400) so I decided to wait until it was covered - which I think is 60 here. Then two people in my 6 person office got shingles within weeks of each other so I decided I should get it. But now I have looked into it more and it apparently doesn't last that long - they are saying people who get it younger than 60 might not be protected later in life when the risk of shingles complications is higher. So on the fence as to whether I should wait 4 more years.
How old were you when you got it? I am 56.
I was 58. Not sure where you are or which vaccine they're using in your area. I had the two-dose Shingrix vaccine. I hadn't realized until checking just now that its effectiveness can fade after four years, but for some reason the CDC doesn't recommend subsequent boosters. That doesn't seem to make much sense.
It is Shingrix they give here now - it is only covered by the public health plan if you are between 65-70. I guess the waning immunity is why they limit to those ages, they want people to get it when they are most likely to need it.
FWIW, when I got shingles while in . . . hmm, 30s/40s? . . . they told me that younger people typically have milder cases than older people, though of course there are exceptions. If true, perhaps that's also part of the picture?lynn_glenmont wrote: »lynn_glenmont wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »yes, interesting difference.
Even back in March/April when flu vaccines were at their peak here - ie just before southern hemisphere winter - one week gap was the thing.
was 2 week gap initially but then reduced to 1.
Sometimes inconvenient for people but that's what it is.
(shingles vaccine may be different in US recomendations because it is a live vaccine - the others are not)
Our shingles vaccine (US) is inactivated.
In that case I can't think of any reason why other vaccines are considered OK with covid vaccine but shingles vaccine is not.
I'm not sure...it might not be a medical reason, but more of a comfort issue.
Very few people I know have ever had a noticeable reaction to a flu vaccine. But almost everyone I know has had some sort of reaction (mild to severe) from the COVID and shingles vaccines.
That's just a personal observation.
That hasn't been my observation - and I give a lot of vaccines in my job.
Hasn't been any more local reactions in covid or shingles vs flu vaccines
Hmmm...again, just my personal observations...
My workplace provides flu vaccines every year, and most employees take them.
Over the years, I've heard one or two of my co-workers say they were a little tired or sore the next day.
All of my co-workers have now been vaccinated for COVID (by mandate). Well over half talked about moderate to severe reactions....fevers, headaches, exhaustion, etc. Very few people said they had little to no reaction.
In my little world, it's a very stark difference between the two vaccines.
That's interesting.
Many people I know have had no reaction to the covid vac or minor reactions only - not everyone, and I haven't kept statistics to say what percentage - but many people.
Not heard of anyone having issues with shingles vaccine here.
And the starting point of all this wasn't whether covid vac causes reactions but why other vaccines, in US, can be given co currently with covid vac but shingles cannot.
Are you certain that the shingles vax where you are is the same as in countries others are reporting from?
I know nothing about vaccines, but understand that sometimes the recommended or available ones can differ by nation.
Background reason for asking: The "old" shingles vax in the US - a zoster live vaccine (ZVL, Zostavax) had no significant reputation for unusual side effects, among those I know. The newer one, a recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV, Shingrix) has quite a reputation among people I know for side effects - not super severe, but the pretty-unpleasant soreness, swelling, fever, etc. - perhaps especially after the second shot.
Yeah I am scared to get the shingles vaccine (although I do want it) because I have heard the side effects are nasty - worse than the Covid vaccine. I guess I thought it was just common knowledge that it gives a bad reaction.
Both my husband and I had our first ever flu shot in the fall, and both Covid shots. Covid shots were definitely worse reactions (although not super severe for either of us.)
I can't imagine risking shingles (which you can't even avoid by not mixing with other people, since the virus is lying dormant in your body) and its potential for months or even years of pain for fear of the brief discomfort of the recombinant shingles vaccine.
I was so glad when I was finally able to get the shingles vaccine. When I first thought about it, I was told I was too young, then I was told I had to get a prescription from my doctor, then none of the pharmacies I went to had it in stock .... I'd say it took close to five years from when I first started thinking about it to get the vaccine. No, I wasn't devoting massive amounts of time and energy to trying to get it, but at least several times a year I would stop by a pharmacy that listed it as available only to run into roadblock. I've known people who had really bad cases of shingles that deeply impacted their quality of life, so it was a real relief to get the vaccine, despite the soreness, headache, and fatigue. It only lasted one to two days.
I am going to get it. I had the prescription a couple of years ago but when I went to fill it it was expensive (like $400) so I decided to wait until it was covered - which I think is 60 here. Then two people in my 6 person office got shingles within weeks of each other so I decided I should get it. But now I have looked into it more and it apparently doesn't last that long - they are saying people who get it younger than 60 might not be protected later in life when the risk of shingles complications is higher. So on the fence as to whether I should wait 4 more years.
How old were you when you got it? I am 56.
I was 58. Not sure where you are or which vaccine they're using in your area. I had the two-dose Shingrix vaccine. I hadn't realized until checking just now that its effectiveness can fade after four years, but for some reason the CDC doesn't recommend subsequent boosters. That doesn't seem to make much sense.
It is Shingrix they give here now - it is only covered by the public health plan if you are between 65-70. I guess the waning immunity is why they limit to those ages, they want people to get it when they are most likely to need it.
FWIW, when I got shingles while in . . . hmm, 30s/40s? . . . they told me that younger people typically have milder cases than older people, though of course there are exceptions. If true, perhaps that's also part of the picture?
Yeah for sure - that's what I meant. Older people get worse cases, so if they give it too young (when people are less likely to have a bad case) then by the time you might need it more the vaccine immunity is waning already.
But having said that - I don't know why they don't just give a booster every few years? I don't know enough about it but I would speculate it is a cost thing, if very few people get a bad case when they are younger (and since it isn't contagious) doesn't make financial sense from a public health perspective to fund primary series then boosters.
Shingrix has only been approved for use in the U.S. since 2017 so I don't know how they could be recommending boosters at four years yet when it's just been four years it's been in use. I'm sure there will be future directives if supposed efficacy is stated at four years AND if there are a number of breakthrough infections that start showing up. The literature says they expect it to last longer than the four years. But ya know...pesky data.
Oh I don't know that much about vaccine manufacture and testing, I guess I assumed they would have the efficacy data from long term trials before they approved the vaccine for use. I know the Covid vaccine was rushed through but I thought that most other vaccines had full data on efficacy duration before they were introduced into general use. And I didn't realize it was a brand new vaccine.
At any rate it does make it difficult for one to decide the best route to go if the data isn't in yet.
I'm sure there would be a recommended booster at XX interval if it was indicated. I'd get the shots (I did already, in 2019) and then just follow future guidelines.
Except the guidelines here say to get it between 65 - 70 and I am only 56. Thus my dilemma.
1 -
cmriverside wrote: »cmriverside wrote: »lynn_glenmont wrote: »lynn_glenmont wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »yes, interesting difference.
Even back in March/April when flu vaccines were at their peak here - ie just before southern hemisphere winter - one week gap was the thing.
was 2 week gap initially but then reduced to 1.
Sometimes inconvenient for people but that's what it is.
(shingles vaccine may be different in US recomendations because it is a live vaccine - the others are not)
Our shingles vaccine (US) is inactivated.
In that case I can't think of any reason why other vaccines are considered OK with covid vaccine but shingles vaccine is not.
I'm not sure...it might not be a medical reason, but more of a comfort issue.
Very few people I know have ever had a noticeable reaction to a flu vaccine. But almost everyone I know has had some sort of reaction (mild to severe) from the COVID and shingles vaccines.
That's just a personal observation.
That hasn't been my observation - and I give a lot of vaccines in my job.
Hasn't been any more local reactions in covid or shingles vs flu vaccines
Hmmm...again, just my personal observations...
My workplace provides flu vaccines every year, and most employees take them.
Over the years, I've heard one or two of my co-workers say they were a little tired or sore the next day.
All of my co-workers have now been vaccinated for COVID (by mandate). Well over half talked about moderate to severe reactions....fevers, headaches, exhaustion, etc. Very few people said they had little to no reaction.
In my little world, it's a very stark difference between the two vaccines.
That's interesting.
Many people I know have had no reaction to the covid vac or minor reactions only - not everyone, and I haven't kept statistics to say what percentage - but many people.
Not heard of anyone having issues with shingles vaccine here.
And the starting point of all this wasn't whether covid vac causes reactions but why other vaccines, in US, can be given co currently with covid vac but shingles cannot.
Are you certain that the shingles vax where you are is the same as in countries others are reporting from?
I know nothing about vaccines, but understand that sometimes the recommended or available ones can differ by nation.
Background reason for asking: The "old" shingles vax in the US - a zoster live vaccine (ZVL, Zostavax) had no significant reputation for unusual side effects, among those I know. The newer one, a recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV, Shingrix) has quite a reputation among people I know for side effects - not super severe, but the pretty-unpleasant soreness, swelling, fever, etc. - perhaps especially after the second shot.
Yeah I am scared to get the shingles vaccine (although I do want it) because I have heard the side effects are nasty - worse than the Covid vaccine. I guess I thought it was just common knowledge that it gives a bad reaction.
Both my husband and I had our first ever flu shot in the fall, and both Covid shots. Covid shots were definitely worse reactions (although not super severe for either of us.)
I can't imagine risking shingles (which you can't even avoid by not mixing with other people, since the virus is lying dormant in your body) and its potential for months or even years of pain for fear of the brief discomfort of the recombinant shingles vaccine.
I was so glad when I was finally able to get the shingles vaccine. When I first thought about it, I was told I was too young, then I was told I had to get a prescription from my doctor, then none of the pharmacies I went to had it in stock .... I'd say it took close to five years from when I first started thinking about it to get the vaccine. No, I wasn't devoting massive amounts of time and energy to trying to get it, but at least several times a year I would stop by a pharmacy that listed it as available only to run into roadblock. I've known people who had really bad cases of shingles that deeply impacted their quality of life, so it was a real relief to get the vaccine, despite the soreness, headache, and fatigue. It only lasted one to two days.
I am going to get it. I had the prescription a couple of years ago but when I went to fill it it was expensive (like $400) so I decided to wait until it was covered - which I think is 60 here. Then two people in my 6 person office got shingles within weeks of each other so I decided I should get it. But now I have looked into it more and it apparently doesn't last that long - they are saying people who get it younger than 60 might not be protected later in life when the risk of shingles complications is higher. So on the fence as to whether I should wait 4 more years.
How old were you when you got it? I am 56.
I was 58. Not sure where you are or which vaccine they're using in your area. I had the two-dose Shingrix vaccine. I hadn't realized until checking just now that its effectiveness can fade after four years, but for some reason the CDC doesn't recommend subsequent boosters. That doesn't seem to make much sense.
It is Shingrix they give here now - it is only covered by the public health plan if you are between 65-70. I guess the waning immunity is why they limit to those ages, they want people to get it when they are most likely to need it.
FWIW, when I got shingles while in . . . hmm, 30s/40s? . . . they told me that younger people typically have milder cases than older people, though of course there are exceptions. If true, perhaps that's also part of the picture?lynn_glenmont wrote: »lynn_glenmont wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »yes, interesting difference.
Even back in March/April when flu vaccines were at their peak here - ie just before southern hemisphere winter - one week gap was the thing.
was 2 week gap initially but then reduced to 1.
Sometimes inconvenient for people but that's what it is.
(shingles vaccine may be different in US recomendations because it is a live vaccine - the others are not)
Our shingles vaccine (US) is inactivated.
In that case I can't think of any reason why other vaccines are considered OK with covid vaccine but shingles vaccine is not.
I'm not sure...it might not be a medical reason, but more of a comfort issue.
Very few people I know have ever had a noticeable reaction to a flu vaccine. But almost everyone I know has had some sort of reaction (mild to severe) from the COVID and shingles vaccines.
That's just a personal observation.
That hasn't been my observation - and I give a lot of vaccines in my job.
Hasn't been any more local reactions in covid or shingles vs flu vaccines
Hmmm...again, just my personal observations...
My workplace provides flu vaccines every year, and most employees take them.
Over the years, I've heard one or two of my co-workers say they were a little tired or sore the next day.
All of my co-workers have now been vaccinated for COVID (by mandate). Well over half talked about moderate to severe reactions....fevers, headaches, exhaustion, etc. Very few people said they had little to no reaction.
In my little world, it's a very stark difference between the two vaccines.
That's interesting.
Many people I know have had no reaction to the covid vac or minor reactions only - not everyone, and I haven't kept statistics to say what percentage - but many people.
Not heard of anyone having issues with shingles vaccine here.
And the starting point of all this wasn't whether covid vac causes reactions but why other vaccines, in US, can be given co currently with covid vac but shingles cannot.
Are you certain that the shingles vax where you are is the same as in countries others are reporting from?
I know nothing about vaccines, but understand that sometimes the recommended or available ones can differ by nation.
Background reason for asking: The "old" shingles vax in the US - a zoster live vaccine (ZVL, Zostavax) had no significant reputation for unusual side effects, among those I know. The newer one, a recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV, Shingrix) has quite a reputation among people I know for side effects - not super severe, but the pretty-unpleasant soreness, swelling, fever, etc. - perhaps especially after the second shot.
Yeah I am scared to get the shingles vaccine (although I do want it) because I have heard the side effects are nasty - worse than the Covid vaccine. I guess I thought it was just common knowledge that it gives a bad reaction.
Both my husband and I had our first ever flu shot in the fall, and both Covid shots. Covid shots were definitely worse reactions (although not super severe for either of us.)
I can't imagine risking shingles (which you can't even avoid by not mixing with other people, since the virus is lying dormant in your body) and its potential for months or even years of pain for fear of the brief discomfort of the recombinant shingles vaccine.
I was so glad when I was finally able to get the shingles vaccine. When I first thought about it, I was told I was too young, then I was told I had to get a prescription from my doctor, then none of the pharmacies I went to had it in stock .... I'd say it took close to five years from when I first started thinking about it to get the vaccine. No, I wasn't devoting massive amounts of time and energy to trying to get it, but at least several times a year I would stop by a pharmacy that listed it as available only to run into roadblock. I've known people who had really bad cases of shingles that deeply impacted their quality of life, so it was a real relief to get the vaccine, despite the soreness, headache, and fatigue. It only lasted one to two days.
I am going to get it. I had the prescription a couple of years ago but when I went to fill it it was expensive (like $400) so I decided to wait until it was covered - which I think is 60 here. Then two people in my 6 person office got shingles within weeks of each other so I decided I should get it. But now I have looked into it more and it apparently doesn't last that long - they are saying people who get it younger than 60 might not be protected later in life when the risk of shingles complications is higher. So on the fence as to whether I should wait 4 more years.
How old were you when you got it? I am 56.
I was 58. Not sure where you are or which vaccine they're using in your area. I had the two-dose Shingrix vaccine. I hadn't realized until checking just now that its effectiveness can fade after four years, but for some reason the CDC doesn't recommend subsequent boosters. That doesn't seem to make much sense.
It is Shingrix they give here now - it is only covered by the public health plan if you are between 65-70. I guess the waning immunity is why they limit to those ages, they want people to get it when they are most likely to need it.
FWIW, when I got shingles while in . . . hmm, 30s/40s? . . . they told me that younger people typically have milder cases than older people, though of course there are exceptions. If true, perhaps that's also part of the picture?
Yeah for sure - that's what I meant. Older people get worse cases, so if they give it too young (when people are less likely to have a bad case) then by the time you might need it more the vaccine immunity is waning already.
But having said that - I don't know why they don't just give a booster every few years? I don't know enough about it but I would speculate it is a cost thing, if very few people get a bad case when they are younger (and since it isn't contagious) doesn't make financial sense from a public health perspective to fund primary series then boosters.
Shingrix has only been approved for use in the U.S. since 2017 so I don't know how they could be recommending boosters at four years yet when it's just been four years it's been in use. I'm sure there will be future directives if supposed efficacy is stated at four years AND if there are a number of breakthrough infections that start showing up. The literature says they expect it to last longer than the four years. But ya know...pesky data.
Oh I don't know that much about vaccine manufacture and testing, I guess I assumed they would have the efficacy data from long term trials before they approved the vaccine for use. I know the Covid vaccine was rushed through but I thought that most other vaccines had full data on efficacy duration before they were introduced into general use. And I didn't realize it was a brand new vaccine.
At any rate it does make it difficult for one to decide the best route to go if the data isn't in yet.
I'm sure there would be a recommended booster at XX interval if it was indicated. I'd get the shots (I did already, in 2019) and then just follow future guidelines.
Except the guidelines here say to get it between 65 - 70 and I am only 56. Thus my dilemma.
I would get it if you're worried. Why wouldn't you?
https://www.cdc.gov/shingles/multimedia/shringrix-50-older.html
0 -
Got my Pfizer booster today. Am trying to schedule my second shingles shot for in two weeks, and will get the flu shot after that.
Decided to not get flu shot today for a variety of reasons.6 -
Clinical trial ongoing Shingrix
Persistence of Protection by Shingrix
https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04169009
Study started in July, 2020. Estimated end date of study, March 2023. Only 140 subjects, non-randomized.
I got my Pfizer Covid 3rd shot booster and then the Fluzone Quad the next day. No issues with either one. I believe a relaxed arm and then moving it a lot afterwards helps with the muscle discomfort. My 2nd Pfizer knocked me into a nap on day two, but this third one...nada.3 -
lynn_glenmont wrote: »lynn_glenmont wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »yes, interesting difference.
Even back in March/April when flu vaccines were at their peak here - ie just before southern hemisphere winter - one week gap was the thing.
was 2 week gap initially but then reduced to 1.
Sometimes inconvenient for people but that's what it is.
(shingles vaccine may be different in US recomendations because it is a live vaccine - the others are not)
Our shingles vaccine (US) is inactivated.
In that case I can't think of any reason why other vaccines are considered OK with covid vaccine but shingles vaccine is not.
I'm not sure...it might not be a medical reason, but more of a comfort issue.
Very few people I know have ever had a noticeable reaction to a flu vaccine. But almost everyone I know has had some sort of reaction (mild to severe) from the COVID and shingles vaccines.
That's just a personal observation.
That hasn't been my observation - and I give a lot of vaccines in my job.
Hasn't been any more local reactions in covid or shingles vs flu vaccines
Hmmm...again, just my personal observations...
My workplace provides flu vaccines every year, and most employees take them.
Over the years, I've heard one or two of my co-workers say they were a little tired or sore the next day.
All of my co-workers have now been vaccinated for COVID (by mandate). Well over half talked about moderate to severe reactions....fevers, headaches, exhaustion, etc. Very few people said they had little to no reaction.
In my little world, it's a very stark difference between the two vaccines.
That's interesting.
Many people I know have had no reaction to the covid vac or minor reactions only - not everyone, and I haven't kept statistics to say what percentage - but many people.
Not heard of anyone having issues with shingles vaccine here.
And the starting point of all this wasn't whether covid vac causes reactions but why other vaccines, in US, can be given co currently with covid vac but shingles cannot.
Are you certain that the shingles vax where you are is the same as in countries others are reporting from?
I know nothing about vaccines, but understand that sometimes the recommended or available ones can differ by nation.
Background reason for asking: The "old" shingles vax in the US - a zoster live vaccine (ZVL, Zostavax) had no significant reputation for unusual side effects, among those I know. The newer one, a recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV, Shingrix) has quite a reputation among people I know for side effects - not super severe, but the pretty-unpleasant soreness, swelling, fever, etc. - perhaps especially after the second shot.
Yeah I am scared to get the shingles vaccine (although I do want it) because I have heard the side effects are nasty - worse than the Covid vaccine. I guess I thought it was just common knowledge that it gives a bad reaction.
Both my husband and I had our first ever flu shot in the fall, and both Covid shots. Covid shots were definitely worse reactions (although not super severe for either of us.)
I can't imagine risking shingles (which you can't even avoid by not mixing with other people, since the virus is lying dormant in your body) and its potential for months or even years of pain for fear of the brief discomfort of the recombinant shingles vaccine.
I was so glad when I was finally able to get the shingles vaccine. When I first thought about it, I was told I was too young, then I was told I had to get a prescription from my doctor, then none of the pharmacies I went to had it in stock .... I'd say it took close to five years from when I first started thinking about it to get the vaccine. No, I wasn't devoting massive amounts of time and energy to trying to get it, but at least several times a year I would stop by a pharmacy that listed it as available only to run into roadblock. I've known people who had really bad cases of shingles that deeply impacted their quality of life, so it was a real relief to get the vaccine, despite the soreness, headache, and fatigue. It only lasted one to two days.
I am going to get it. I had the prescription a couple of years ago but when I went to fill it it was expensive (like $400) so I decided to wait until it was covered - which I think is 60 here. Then two people in my 6 person office got shingles within weeks of each other so I decided I should get it. But now I have looked into it more and it apparently doesn't last that long - they are saying people who get it younger than 60 might not be protected later in life when the risk of shingles complications is higher. So on the fence as to whether I should wait 4 more years.
How old were you when you got it? I am 56.
I was 58. Not sure where you are or which vaccine they're using in your area. I had the two-dose Shingrix vaccine. I hadn't realized until checking just now that its effectiveness can fade after four years, but for some reason the CDC doesn't recommend subsequent boosters. That doesn't seem to make much sense.
It is Shingrix they give here now - it is only covered by the public health plan if you are between 65-70. I guess the waning immunity is why they limit to those ages, they want people to get it when they are most likely to need it.
FWIW, when I got shingles while in . . . hmm, 30s/40s? . . . they told me that younger people typically have milder cases than older people, though of course there are exceptions. If true, perhaps that's also part of the picture?lynn_glenmont wrote: »lynn_glenmont wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »yes, interesting difference.
Even back in March/April when flu vaccines were at their peak here - ie just before southern hemisphere winter - one week gap was the thing.
was 2 week gap initially but then reduced to 1.
Sometimes inconvenient for people but that's what it is.
(shingles vaccine may be different in US recomendations because it is a live vaccine - the others are not)
Our shingles vaccine (US) is inactivated.
In that case I can't think of any reason why other vaccines are considered OK with covid vaccine but shingles vaccine is not.
I'm not sure...it might not be a medical reason, but more of a comfort issue.
Very few people I know have ever had a noticeable reaction to a flu vaccine. But almost everyone I know has had some sort of reaction (mild to severe) from the COVID and shingles vaccines.
That's just a personal observation.
That hasn't been my observation - and I give a lot of vaccines in my job.
Hasn't been any more local reactions in covid or shingles vs flu vaccines
Hmmm...again, just my personal observations...
My workplace provides flu vaccines every year, and most employees take them.
Over the years, I've heard one or two of my co-workers say they were a little tired or sore the next day.
All of my co-workers have now been vaccinated for COVID (by mandate). Well over half talked about moderate to severe reactions....fevers, headaches, exhaustion, etc. Very few people said they had little to no reaction.
In my little world, it's a very stark difference between the two vaccines.
That's interesting.
Many people I know have had no reaction to the covid vac or minor reactions only - not everyone, and I haven't kept statistics to say what percentage - but many people.
Not heard of anyone having issues with shingles vaccine here.
And the starting point of all this wasn't whether covid vac causes reactions but why other vaccines, in US, can be given co currently with covid vac but shingles cannot.
Are you certain that the shingles vax where you are is the same as in countries others are reporting from?
I know nothing about vaccines, but understand that sometimes the recommended or available ones can differ by nation.
Background reason for asking: The "old" shingles vax in the US - a zoster live vaccine (ZVL, Zostavax) had no significant reputation for unusual side effects, among those I know. The newer one, a recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV, Shingrix) has quite a reputation among people I know for side effects - not super severe, but the pretty-unpleasant soreness, swelling, fever, etc. - perhaps especially after the second shot.
Yeah I am scared to get the shingles vaccine (although I do want it) because I have heard the side effects are nasty - worse than the Covid vaccine. I guess I thought it was just common knowledge that it gives a bad reaction.
Both my husband and I had our first ever flu shot in the fall, and both Covid shots. Covid shots were definitely worse reactions (although not super severe for either of us.)
I can't imagine risking shingles (which you can't even avoid by not mixing with other people, since the virus is lying dormant in your body) and its potential for months or even years of pain for fear of the brief discomfort of the recombinant shingles vaccine.
I was so glad when I was finally able to get the shingles vaccine. When I first thought about it, I was told I was too young, then I was told I had to get a prescription from my doctor, then none of the pharmacies I went to had it in stock .... I'd say it took close to five years from when I first started thinking about it to get the vaccine. No, I wasn't devoting massive amounts of time and energy to trying to get it, but at least several times a year I would stop by a pharmacy that listed it as available only to run into roadblock. I've known people who had really bad cases of shingles that deeply impacted their quality of life, so it was a real relief to get the vaccine, despite the soreness, headache, and fatigue. It only lasted one to two days.
I am going to get it. I had the prescription a couple of years ago but when I went to fill it it was expensive (like $400) so I decided to wait until it was covered - which I think is 60 here. Then two people in my 6 person office got shingles within weeks of each other so I decided I should get it. But now I have looked into it more and it apparently doesn't last that long - they are saying people who get it younger than 60 might not be protected later in life when the risk of shingles complications is higher. So on the fence as to whether I should wait 4 more years.
How old were you when you got it? I am 56.
I was 58. Not sure where you are or which vaccine they're using in your area. I had the two-dose Shingrix vaccine. I hadn't realized until checking just now that its effectiveness can fade after four years, but for some reason the CDC doesn't recommend subsequent boosters. That doesn't seem to make much sense.
It is Shingrix they give here now - it is only covered by the public health plan if you are between 65-70. I guess the waning immunity is why they limit to those ages, they want people to get it when they are most likely to need it.
FWIW, when I got shingles while in . . . hmm, 30s/40s? . . . they told me that younger people typically have milder cases than older people, though of course there are exceptions. If true, perhaps that's also part of the picture?
Yeah for sure - that's what I meant. Older people get worse cases, so if they give it too young (when people are less likely to have a bad case) then by the time you might need it more the vaccine immunity is waning already.
But having said that - I don't know why they don't just give a booster every few years? I don't know enough about it but I would speculate it is a cost thing, if very few people get a bad case when they are younger (and since it isn't contagious) doesn't make financial sense from a public health perspective to fund primary series then boosters.
I'm skeptical that that's the reasoning. There are vaccines for other non-contagious diseases that are administered routinely with boosters recommended regularly - tetanus comes to mind. I'm sure there's a cost difference between the tetanus vax and Shingrix because the former has been commoditized for a long time, but I still don't think that would be the basis for recommending Shingrix only for older folks.
I'm sure the incidence and severity of the disease (more common, more severe among elders) is part of what's considered. Possible there are other differences as well, like risk/reward tradeoff, kinds of things that are considered for other medications generally and vaccines specifically.2 -
cmriverside wrote: »cmriverside wrote: »cmriverside wrote: »lynn_glenmont wrote: »lynn_glenmont wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »yes, interesting difference.
Even back in March/April when flu vaccines were at their peak here - ie just before southern hemisphere winter - one week gap was the thing.
was 2 week gap initially but then reduced to 1.
Sometimes inconvenient for people but that's what it is.
(shingles vaccine may be different in US recomendations because it is a live vaccine - the others are not)
Our shingles vaccine (US) is inactivated.
In that case I can't think of any reason why other vaccines are considered OK with covid vaccine but shingles vaccine is not.
I'm not sure...it might not be a medical reason, but more of a comfort issue.
Very few people I know have ever had a noticeable reaction to a flu vaccine. But almost everyone I know has had some sort of reaction (mild to severe) from the COVID and shingles vaccines.
That's just a personal observation.
That hasn't been my observation - and I give a lot of vaccines in my job.
Hasn't been any more local reactions in covid or shingles vs flu vaccines
Hmmm...again, just my personal observations...
My workplace provides flu vaccines every year, and most employees take them.
Over the years, I've heard one or two of my co-workers say they were a little tired or sore the next day.
All of my co-workers have now been vaccinated for COVID (by mandate). Well over half talked about moderate to severe reactions....fevers, headaches, exhaustion, etc. Very few people said they had little to no reaction.
In my little world, it's a very stark difference between the two vaccines.
That's interesting.
Many people I know have had no reaction to the covid vac or minor reactions only - not everyone, and I haven't kept statistics to say what percentage - but many people.
Not heard of anyone having issues with shingles vaccine here.
And the starting point of all this wasn't whether covid vac causes reactions but why other vaccines, in US, can be given co currently with covid vac but shingles cannot.
Are you certain that the shingles vax where you are is the same as in countries others are reporting from?
I know nothing about vaccines, but understand that sometimes the recommended or available ones can differ by nation.
Background reason for asking: The "old" shingles vax in the US - a zoster live vaccine (ZVL, Zostavax) had no significant reputation for unusual side effects, among those I know. The newer one, a recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV, Shingrix) has quite a reputation among people I know for side effects - not super severe, but the pretty-unpleasant soreness, swelling, fever, etc. - perhaps especially after the second shot.
Yeah I am scared to get the shingles vaccine (although I do want it) because I have heard the side effects are nasty - worse than the Covid vaccine. I guess I thought it was just common knowledge that it gives a bad reaction.
Both my husband and I had our first ever flu shot in the fall, and both Covid shots. Covid shots were definitely worse reactions (although not super severe for either of us.)
I can't imagine risking shingles (which you can't even avoid by not mixing with other people, since the virus is lying dormant in your body) and its potential for months or even years of pain for fear of the brief discomfort of the recombinant shingles vaccine.
I was so glad when I was finally able to get the shingles vaccine. When I first thought about it, I was told I was too young, then I was told I had to get a prescription from my doctor, then none of the pharmacies I went to had it in stock .... I'd say it took close to five years from when I first started thinking about it to get the vaccine. No, I wasn't devoting massive amounts of time and energy to trying to get it, but at least several times a year I would stop by a pharmacy that listed it as available only to run into roadblock. I've known people who had really bad cases of shingles that deeply impacted their quality of life, so it was a real relief to get the vaccine, despite the soreness, headache, and fatigue. It only lasted one to two days.
I am going to get it. I had the prescription a couple of years ago but when I went to fill it it was expensive (like $400) so I decided to wait until it was covered - which I think is 60 here. Then two people in my 6 person office got shingles within weeks of each other so I decided I should get it. But now I have looked into it more and it apparently doesn't last that long - they are saying people who get it younger than 60 might not be protected later in life when the risk of shingles complications is higher. So on the fence as to whether I should wait 4 more years.
How old were you when you got it? I am 56.
I was 58. Not sure where you are or which vaccine they're using in your area. I had the two-dose Shingrix vaccine. I hadn't realized until checking just now that its effectiveness can fade after four years, but for some reason the CDC doesn't recommend subsequent boosters. That doesn't seem to make much sense.
It is Shingrix they give here now - it is only covered by the public health plan if you are between 65-70. I guess the waning immunity is why they limit to those ages, they want people to get it when they are most likely to need it.
FWIW, when I got shingles while in . . . hmm, 30s/40s? . . . they told me that younger people typically have milder cases than older people, though of course there are exceptions. If true, perhaps that's also part of the picture?lynn_glenmont wrote: »lynn_glenmont wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »SuzySunshine99 wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »paperpudding wrote: »yes, interesting difference.
Even back in March/April when flu vaccines were at their peak here - ie just before southern hemisphere winter - one week gap was the thing.
was 2 week gap initially but then reduced to 1.
Sometimes inconvenient for people but that's what it is.
(shingles vaccine may be different in US recomendations because it is a live vaccine - the others are not)
Our shingles vaccine (US) is inactivated.
In that case I can't think of any reason why other vaccines are considered OK with covid vaccine but shingles vaccine is not.
I'm not sure...it might not be a medical reason, but more of a comfort issue.
Very few people I know have ever had a noticeable reaction to a flu vaccine. But almost everyone I know has had some sort of reaction (mild to severe) from the COVID and shingles vaccines.
That's just a personal observation.
That hasn't been my observation - and I give a lot of vaccines in my job.
Hasn't been any more local reactions in covid or shingles vs flu vaccines
Hmmm...again, just my personal observations...
My workplace provides flu vaccines every year, and most employees take them.
Over the years, I've heard one or two of my co-workers say they were a little tired or sore the next day.
All of my co-workers have now been vaccinated for COVID (by mandate). Well over half talked about moderate to severe reactions....fevers, headaches, exhaustion, etc. Very few people said they had little to no reaction.
In my little world, it's a very stark difference between the two vaccines.
That's interesting.
Many people I know have had no reaction to the covid vac or minor reactions only - not everyone, and I haven't kept statistics to say what percentage - but many people.
Not heard of anyone having issues with shingles vaccine here.
And the starting point of all this wasn't whether covid vac causes reactions but why other vaccines, in US, can be given co currently with covid vac but shingles cannot.
Are you certain that the shingles vax where you are is the same as in countries others are reporting from?
I know nothing about vaccines, but understand that sometimes the recommended or available ones can differ by nation.
Background reason for asking: The "old" shingles vax in the US - a zoster live vaccine (ZVL, Zostavax) had no significant reputation for unusual side effects, among those I know. The newer one, a recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV, Shingrix) has quite a reputation among people I know for side effects - not super severe, but the pretty-unpleasant soreness, swelling, fever, etc. - perhaps especially after the second shot.
Yeah I am scared to get the shingles vaccine (although I do want it) because I have heard the side effects are nasty - worse than the Covid vaccine. I guess I thought it was just common knowledge that it gives a bad reaction.
Both my husband and I had our first ever flu shot in the fall, and both Covid shots. Covid shots were definitely worse reactions (although not super severe for either of us.)
I can't imagine risking shingles (which you can't even avoid by not mixing with other people, since the virus is lying dormant in your body) and its potential for months or even years of pain for fear of the brief discomfort of the recombinant shingles vaccine.
I was so glad when I was finally able to get the shingles vaccine. When I first thought about it, I was told I was too young, then I was told I had to get a prescription from my doctor, then none of the pharmacies I went to had it in stock .... I'd say it took close to five years from when I first started thinking about it to get the vaccine. No, I wasn't devoting massive amounts of time and energy to trying to get it, but at least several times a year I would stop by a pharmacy that listed it as available only to run into roadblock. I've known people who had really bad cases of shingles that deeply impacted their quality of life, so it was a real relief to get the vaccine, despite the soreness, headache, and fatigue. It only lasted one to two days.
I am going to get it. I had the prescription a couple of years ago but when I went to fill it it was expensive (like $400) so I decided to wait until it was covered - which I think is 60 here. Then two people in my 6 person office got shingles within weeks of each other so I decided I should get it. But now I have looked into it more and it apparently doesn't last that long - they are saying people who get it younger than 60 might not be protected later in life when the risk of shingles complications is higher. So on the fence as to whether I should wait 4 more years.
How old were you when you got it? I am 56.
I was 58. Not sure where you are or which vaccine they're using in your area. I had the two-dose Shingrix vaccine. I hadn't realized until checking just now that its effectiveness can fade after four years, but for some reason the CDC doesn't recommend subsequent boosters. That doesn't seem to make much sense.
It is Shingrix they give here now - it is only covered by the public health plan if you are between 65-70. I guess the waning immunity is why they limit to those ages, they want people to get it when they are most likely to need it.
FWIW, when I got shingles while in . . . hmm, 30s/40s? . . . they told me that younger people typically have milder cases than older people, though of course there are exceptions. If true, perhaps that's also part of the picture?
Yeah for sure - that's what I meant. Older people get worse cases, so if they give it too young (when people are less likely to have a bad case) then by the time you might need it more the vaccine immunity is waning already.
But having said that - I don't know why they don't just give a booster every few years? I don't know enough about it but I would speculate it is a cost thing, if very few people get a bad case when they are younger (and since it isn't contagious) doesn't make financial sense from a public health perspective to fund primary series then boosters.
Shingrix has only been approved for use in the U.S. since 2017 so I don't know how they could be recommending boosters at four years yet when it's just been four years it's been in use. I'm sure there will be future directives if supposed efficacy is stated at four years AND if there are a number of breakthrough infections that start showing up. The literature says they expect it to last longer than the four years. But ya know...pesky data.
Oh I don't know that much about vaccine manufacture and testing, I guess I assumed they would have the efficacy data from long term trials before they approved the vaccine for use. I know the Covid vaccine was rushed through but I thought that most other vaccines had full data on efficacy duration before they were introduced into general use. And I didn't realize it was a brand new vaccine.
At any rate it does make it difficult for one to decide the best route to go if the data isn't in yet.
I'm sure there would be a recommended booster at XX interval if it was indicated. I'd get the shots (I did already, in 2019) and then just follow future guidelines.
Except the guidelines here say to get it between 65 - 70 and I am only 56. Thus my dilemma.
I would get it if you're worried. Why wouldn't you?
https://www.cdc.gov/shingles/multimedia/shringrix-50-older.html
My concern is that if they are recommending it here for older (65-70) people based on the anticipated efficacy duration, then Health Canada may not approve a booster for it because it might not be warranted when given in the recommended age group. In which case my doctor wouldn't be able to prescribe it.
So if I get it at 56 and "need" a booster because I got it too young, then I could be SOL.
Health related things are a bit different here than in the US, we sometimes can't just go get something just because we want it/can pay for it.
I do want to get it I definitely don't want to get shingles, I'll talk to my doctor the next time I see her.6 -
@cmriverside thanks for that link from science daily. I had been wondering why there was no booster if it only lasted 4-5 years which was the information I kept finding but I didn't realize it had only been approved in the US since 2017. Everything makes so much more sense now.3
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I got the ill-fated Zostavax so apparently I'm going to need Shingrix anyway. Something to keep in mind before I retire and lose my insurance benefits.6
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I got the ill-fated Zostavax so apparently I'm going to need Shingrix anyway. Something to keep in mind before I retire and lose my insurance benefits.
I’m not positive, but from what we were told by supplemental health insurance agent, most vaccines are covered by Medicare part D, and certain vaccines are always covered by part B. My husband just retired 9/30/21, so we haven’t used it yet, but may be useful for you to check out, if that would affect your decision.0 -
Interesting my friend's son who is probably just 50 got his first shingrex yesterday. This was thru the US VA. Seemed early to me, but maybe since I got mine (not thru the Veteran's admin) a few years ago recommendations are changing.
What does everyone think about this mix and matching thing? Is that to allow folks who got J&J to get a different one for the most part? I had Pfizer back in April so am not quite due altho I probably could get a booster. I am just really wanting to see more data. My brother had Moderna and I think already had a booster due to age and health conditions.4 -
SummerSkier wrote: »Interesting my friend's son who is probably just 50 got his first shingrex yesterday. This was thru the US VA. Seemed early to me, but maybe since I got mine (not thru the Veteran's admin) a few years ago recommendations are changing.
What does everyone think about this mix and matching thing? Is that to allow folks who got J&J to get a different one for the most part? I had Pfizer back in April so am not quite due altho I probably could get a booster. I am just really wanting to see more data. My brother had Moderna and I think already had a booster due to age and health conditions.
There is some theorizing that different types of vaccines might provide different "Instructuons" to your immune system, and better immunity, but that's just theory right now. I think it is more for people who either want a booster but had a bad reaction to their main doses, or people who got J&J and either don't trust it or want in on the mRNA action
It's a good idea for them to get more data about mixing regardless. It's not realistic or efficient to keep all these different brands available forever I don't think, so if boosters will be a thing long term I'd guess one or two brands will show themselves to be the best in some way, at least regionally.
The TWIV folks say mix and match looks safe to them, but I don't think they've seen enough data yet to say whether it's beneficial or doesn't really matter.2 -
I actually decided to wait a day or two and get Moderna (I am getting it plus flu today vs yesterday or the day before), because most of what I've seen is that it either doesn't matter or could be beneficial to mix Pfizer (my first 2) and Moderna.2
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https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-europe-health-london-71eff66d2e2924f44a4207844b84c208
I was thinking UK was out of the Covid-19 woods and now this warning. Russia is at 1000 deaths daily and looking at lockdowns. China is in the Covid news cycle again. After 2 years I would though science would have made more progress. The non medical Covid-19 side effects is getting more attention now than the virus itself. It's like Covid-19 is Wildfire.4 -
SummerSkier wrote: »Interesting my friend's son who is probably just 50 got his first shingrex yesterday. This was thru the US VA. Seemed early to me, but maybe since I got mine (not thru the Veteran's admin) a few years ago recommendations are changing.
What does everyone think about this mix and matching thing? Is that to allow folks who got J&J to get a different one for the most part? I had Pfizer back in April so am not quite due altho I probably could get a booster. I am just really wanting to see more data. My brother had Moderna and I think already had a booster due to age and health conditions.
There is some theorizing that different types of vaccines might provide different "Instructuons" to your immune system, and better immunity, but that's just theory right now. I think it is more for people who either want a booster but had a bad reaction to their main doses, or people who got J&J and either don't trust it or want in on the mRNA action
It's a good idea for them to get more data about mixing regardless. It's not realistic or efficient to keep all these different brands available forever I don't think, so if boosters will be a thing long term I'd guess one or two brands will show themselves to be the best in some way, at least regionally.
The TWIV folks say mix and match looks safe to them, but I don't think they've seen enough data yet to say whether it's beneficial or doesn't really matter.
TWIV actually just went over the data presented to the FDA (can't remember the episode, but very recent). The data looks good for the mixing and matching. All the boosters worked well, with moderna yielding the highest antibody levels. There were no significant safety issues.
Interestingly, when J&J vaccine was followed by a J&J booster, protection levels were very good. But antibodies levels were much lower (like 10 time lower).
I received the J&J vaccine, and will be receiving a Moderna booster today! I've been waiting for this.5 -
Medicare & our supplement covered the cost for all the vaccines we have had..flu, Shingrix.3
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SummerSkier wrote: »Interesting my friend's son who is probably just 50 got his first shingrex yesterday. This was thru the US VA. Seemed early to me, but maybe since I got mine (not thru the Veteran's admin) a few years ago recommendations are changing.
What does everyone think about this mix and matching thing? Is that to allow folks who got J&J to get a different one for the most part? I had Pfizer back in April so am not quite due altho I probably could get a booster. I am just really wanting to see more data. My brother had Moderna and I think already had a booster due to age and health conditions.
There is some theorizing that different types of vaccines might provide different "Instructuons" to your immune system, and better immunity, but that's just theory right now. I think it is more for people who either want a booster but had a bad reaction to their main doses, or people who got J&J and either don't trust it or want in on the mRNA action
It's a good idea for them to get more data about mixing regardless. It's not realistic or efficient to keep all these different brands available forever I don't think, so if boosters will be a thing long term I'd guess one or two brands will show themselves to be the best in some way, at least regionally.
The TWIV folks say mix and match looks safe to them, but I don't think they've seen enough data yet to say whether it's beneficial or doesn't really matter.
Just tell them to look up here - I think about 2 million Canadians got mixed vaccines. We can be the case study.
All my kids got a first dose Pfizer and second Moderna, because they told us to get whatever was available. They also mixed Astra Zeneca with Pfizer and Moderna (even our PM got that mix.) Not sure if they have tracked breakthrough cases by vaccine type but we are doing pretty well in general right now where I am with about 85% vax'd with various vaccines.10 -
missysippy930 wrote: »I got the ill-fated Zostavax so apparently I'm going to need Shingrix anyway. Something to keep in mind before I retire and lose my insurance benefits.
I’m not positive, but from what we were told by supplemental health insurance agent, most vaccines are covered by Medicare part D, and certain vaccines are always covered by part B. My husband just retired 9/30/21, so we haven’t used it yet, but may be useful for you to check out, if that would affect your decision.
I'm sure that's helpful info for other US readers however I'm in Canada. The cost of prescribed medications is covered by the patient, either out of pocket or by a private insurance benefit plan. I lose those benefits once I'm no longer employed. There are various cost-subsidy schemes that can be accessed (depending on the province) after that but I'd still prefer to have the full amount covered for an expensive one like shingles vax.
I don't know which vaccinations are no-cost (covered under public health) here vs patient-cost, or how that is decided. Zostavax and Twinrix definitely went through my benefit plan. Covid vaccination was obviously free, as is the flu shot. My doctor gave me DPT in office so I assume it's a free one, as the others were obtained from the pharmacy with a prescription.0 -
SummerSkier wrote: »Interesting my friend's son who is probably just 50 got his first shingrex yesterday. This was thru the US VA. Seemed early to me, but maybe since I got mine (not thru the Veteran's admin) a few years ago recommendations are changing.
What does everyone think about this mix and matching thing? Is that to allow folks who got J&J to get a different one for the most part? I had Pfizer back in April so am not quite due altho I probably could get a booster. I am just really wanting to see more data. My brother had Moderna and I think already had a booster due to age and health conditions.
There is some theorizing that different types of vaccines might provide different "Instructuons" to your immune system, and better immunity, but that's just theory right now. I think it is more for people who either want a booster but had a bad reaction to their main doses, or people who got J&J and either don't trust it or want in on the mRNA action
It's a good idea for them to get more data about mixing regardless. It's not realistic or efficient to keep all these different brands available forever I don't think, so if boosters will be a thing long term I'd guess one or two brands will show themselves to be the best in some way, at least regionally.
The TWIV folks say mix and match looks safe to them, but I don't think they've seen enough data yet to say whether it's beneficial or doesn't really matter.
Not an immunology technical thing, but I've assume the mix'n'match data would also be useful in a logistical sense: Here, different entities have offered different brands, and my (poorly informed) impression is that some are now easier to find than others. If so, those who went to a mass vaccination event locally, especially - a temporary thing - might have logistical challenges getting the same brand for a second or third dose . . . not necessarily impossible, but an additional wrinkle.
If the mixed regimens are at least close to as good, there's real reason to make a huge effort to get the same thing. Of course, if a particular mix is better, that could be a reason to go through the logistical hassle, but at that point it's more of a personal choice about the tradeoffs, vs. a "only one brand throughout" being the medical guideline and possibly a logistical challenge simply because mixes weren't tested.1 -
I really hope they are tracking which vaccines have the most break-through infections. It certainly sounds like J&J is less effective over the long term, since they recommend everyone over 18 get another shot 2 months after getting vaccinated, vs. only those at high risk and after 6 months for Pfizer and Moderna. I haven't heard anything about Astra-Zeneca's long term effectiveness, but I don't think that was ever used widely here in the US. I think it was widely used in Europe though. For those who had that shot, what are the recommendations as to boosters?1
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SummerSkier wrote: »Interesting my friend's son who is probably just 50 got his first shingrex yesterday. This was thru the US VA. Seemed early to me, but maybe since I got mine (not thru the Veteran's admin) a few years ago recommendations are changing.
What does everyone think about this mix and matching thing? Is that to allow folks who got J&J to get a different one for the most part? I had Pfizer back in April so am not quite due altho I probably could get a booster. I am just really wanting to see more data. My brother had Moderna and I think already had a booster due to age and health conditions.
There is some theorizing that different types of vaccines might provide different "Instructuons" to your immune system, and better immunity, but that's just theory right now. I think it is more for people who either want a booster but had a bad reaction to their main doses, or people who got J&J and either don't trust it or want in on the mRNA action
It's a good idea for them to get more data about mixing regardless. It's not realistic or efficient to keep all these different brands available forever I don't think, so if boosters will be a thing long term I'd guess one or two brands will show themselves to be the best in some way, at least regionally.
The TWIV folks say mix and match looks safe to them, but I don't think they've seen enough data yet to say whether it's beneficial or doesn't really matter.
Not an immunology technical thing, but I've assume the mix'n'match data would also be useful in a logistical sense: Here, different entities have offered different brands, and my (poorly informed) impression is that some are now easier to find than others. If so, those who went to a mass vaccination event locally, especially - a temporary thing - might have logistical challenges getting the same brand for a second or third dose . . . not necessarily impossible, but an additional wrinkle.
If the mixed regimens are at least close to as good, there's real reason to make a huge effort to get the same thing. Of course, if a particular mix is better, that could be a reason to go through the logistical hassle, but at that point it's more of a personal choice about the tradeoffs, vs. a "only one brand throughout" being the medical guideline and possibly a logistical challenge simply because mixes weren't tested.
Here they all seem to be easily available so long as you do a search on stores (assuming one is going to a pharmacy), but I agree that that is also an important consideration.0 -
Hubby and I need to get around to doing our shingles vaccines. ATM it looks like likely next summer. Life is nuts and downtime you just add to things.
The fact that Shingles is a disease from a reactivated dormant virus in a human, causes me to think about a feline condition that is a reactivated coronavirus. The condition is called FIP and is a pretty horrible virus (killed/destroyed 2 of my six cats over the past 38 years). It typically fatal and attacks the young and the old, or basically anyone with a weaker immune system. The veterinary world is finally developing treatments for it, but that's another discussion. My reason for sharing is just that I do have a hopefully illogical worry in the back of my mind about what might happen if COVID behaves like FIP/Shingles down the road. The idea of this might be a really good argument for getting the vaccine. 9 -
https://youtu.be/Gz0I_v-ihsE
John Campbell update. At the end there's a video from hospital of a guy with heart damage after first shot who was doing heavy workouts.2 -
Another John Campbell update, on low Vit D and increased mortality
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HwNgKJ-7YWQ
2 -
https://youtu.be/yPvUb9jo-Pw
This news out of Europe is stressful. I expect there may be a new variant. China Covid-19 news is also stressful. Thankfully USA numbers are looking better but we are about to head into winter.1 -
spiriteagle99 wrote: »I really hope they are tracking which vaccines have the most break-through infections. It certainly sounds like J&J is less effective over the long term, since they recommend everyone over 18 get another shot 2 months after getting vaccinated, vs. only those at high risk and after 6 months for Pfizer and Moderna. I haven't heard anything about Astra-Zeneca's long term effectiveness, but I don't think that was ever used widely here in the US. I think it was widely used in Europe though. For those who had that shot, what are the recommendations as to boosters?
Here in Canada anyway it was recommended that those who got AZ for their first shot get either Pfizer or Moderna for their second. Only one province in Canada so far has said they will be offering third shot boosters to the general public - and it will only be Pfizer or Moderna. I think AZ is basically phased out here.3
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