Shingles is a painful and itchy rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 3 people in the United States will develop shingles in their lifetime, and the risk increases as we age.
The Shingrix vaccine is the most effective way to prevent shingles and its complications, and the CDC recommends that everyone aged 50 years and above should receive two doses of the vaccine. However, what happens if you don’t get the second Shingrix shot?
What is the Shingrix Vaccine?
Before diving into the consequences of not receiving the second Shingrix, shot, let’s first discuss the vaccine and how it works. The Shingrix vaccine is a non-live, recombinant vaccine that contains a piece of the varicella-zoster virus. When you receive the vaccine, your body recognizes this piece of the virus and produces an immune response. Which helps protect you against shingles. The vaccine is given in two doses, with the second dose administered 2 to 6 months after the first dose.
Consequences of Not Receiving the Second Shingrix Shot
Let’s answer the main question: what happens if you don’t get the second Shingrix shot? The short answer is that you may need to be fully protected against shingles and their complications.
According to the CDC, the Shingrix vaccine is approximately 90% effective at preventing shingles and its complications. However, this efficacy rate is only achieved after receiving both vaccine doses. The first dose of the vaccine primes your immune system, while the second dose boosts your immune response and provides longer-lasting protection. Without the double dose, your immune response may not be strong enough to provide adequate protection against shingles.
In addition to the risk of shingles, not receiving the second Shingrix shot may also increase your risk of developing postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). PHN is a painful and long-lasting complication of shingles that can last for months or even years. According to the CDC, approximately 1 in 3 people with shingles will develop PHN, and the risk increases with age.
Conclusion
In conclusion, receiving both doses of the Shingrix vaccine is crucial for protecting against shingles and its complications. Not receiving the second dose may increase your risk of developing shingles and PHN, which can be painful and long-lasting. If you have received the first dose of the Shingrix vaccine, it is important to schedule your second dose as soon as possible to ensure full protection.