Why is Shingrix better than Zostavax?
The main reason for the change from Zostavax to Shingrix vaccines is due to its very significantly improved effectiveness. Studies show Shingrix typically has over 95% efficacy in the over 65s. This effectiveness remains consistently high in patients over 70 or 80 and appears long lasting. In contrast, Zostavax efficacy is only about 35 to 40% in the over 65s, reducing in older patients.
source:
https://independentdoctor.co.uk/news/sh ... questions/
I'll be offered Zostovax free on the NHS later this year, but I'm thinking Shingrix (privately at around £500) might be a better option. My local pharmacies don't do it, and whilst Boots offers the vaccine on its website, there are no appointments available anywhere, leading to me to wonder if it's really available in the UK after all. Does anyone have any experience of Shingrix?