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CVS Shingles Shot: A Comprehensive Guide To Protecting Yourself

Dixie April 15, 2025

Are you tired of hearing about the shingles vaccine but unsure where to get it? CVS Health has got your back, literally! If you're looking for a convenient and reliable place to get the shingles shot, CVS pharmacies across the United States are here to help. Whether you're young or old, protecting yourself from shingles is crucial, and CVS makes it super easy. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about the CVS shingles shot!

Shingles is no joke, folks. It’s a painful condition caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same one that gives you chickenpox. If you’ve had chickenpox before—and most people over 50 have—you’re at risk. Luckily, there’s a vaccine to prevent it, and CVS is one of the easiest places to get it. No more excuses! You can walk into a CVS pharmacy, talk to a pharmacist, and get protected in no time.

But wait, there’s more! This isn’t just about convenience. CVS is committed to providing high-quality healthcare services, and their pharmacists are trained professionals who can answer all your questions about the shingles vaccine. So, if you’re wondering whether you need the shot, how much it costs, or if it’s covered by insurance, this article’s got you covered. Let’s break it down step by step.

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Why Get the Shingles Vaccine?

Shingles is more common than you think. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1 in 3 people in the U.S. will develop shingles during their lifetime. That’s a staggering statistic, isn’t it? But here’s the good news: the shingles vaccine, Shingrix, is highly effective at preventing the disease and reducing its severity if you do get it.

Shingles can cause intense pain, rash, and blisters, and in some cases, it can lead to long-term complications like postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), which is chronic pain that persists even after the rash clears up. Nobody wants to deal with that, right? Getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Who Should Get the Shingles Shot?

The CDC recommends the shingles vaccine for adults aged 50 and older, regardless of whether they’ve had shingles before. Even if you’ve had chickenpox or the older Zostavax vaccine, you should still consider getting Shingrix. It’s the newer, more effective vaccine that provides better protection.

Adults aged 50 and older
People who have already had shingles
Individuals who received Zostavax in the past
Those with weakened immune systems (consult your doctor first)

However, if you’re pregnant, have a severe allergy to any component of the vaccine, or are currently sick with a fever, you should wait to get vaccinated. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you’re unsure.

Why Choose CVS for Your Shingles Shot?

CVS is one of the largest pharmacy chains in the U.S., with thousands of locations nationwide. This means you’re likely to find a CVS pharmacy near you, making it super convenient to get your shingles shot. Plus, CVS pharmacists are trained to administer vaccines and can provide you with all the information you need about the vaccine.

Another great thing about CVS is that they accept most insurance plans, so you might not have to pay anything out of pocket. Even if you don’t have insurance, CVS offers affordable pricing for the shingles vaccine. We’ll talk more about costs later, but for now, just know that CVS is a great option for getting vaccinated.

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What to Expect When You Visit CVS

Visiting CVS for your shingles shot is a breeze. Here’s what you can expect:

Step 1: Walk into your local CVS pharmacy or schedule an appointment online.
Step 2: Talk to the pharmacist about your medical history and any concerns you might have.
Step 3: Roll up your sleeve and get the shot. It’s quick and relatively painless!
Step 4: Stay for a few minutes after the shot to ensure you don’t have any adverse reactions.

That’s it! You’re done in less than 15 minutes, and you’ve taken a big step toward protecting yourself from shingles.

How Much Does the CVS Shingles Shot Cost?

Cost is always a concern when it comes to healthcare, but don’t worry—CVS has you covered. The shingles vaccine, Shingrix, is covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare Part D and many private insurers. If you have insurance, you might not have to pay anything out of pocket.

If you don’t have insurance, the cost of the Shingrix vaccine at CVS is around $150 to $200 per dose, and you’ll need two doses, spaced two to six months apart. While this might seem like a lot, it’s a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re protected from shingles.

Insurance Coverage for the Shingles Vaccine

Most insurance plans cover the shingles vaccine, but coverage can vary depending on your specific plan. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Medicare Part D: Typically covers Shingrix, but you might have a copay or deductible.
Medicare Part B: Does not cover the shingles vaccine.
Private Insurance: Many private insurers cover Shingrix with no out-of-pocket cost.
Medicaid: Coverage varies by state, so check with your provider.

It’s always a good idea to check with your insurance provider beforehand to confirm coverage and understand any potential costs.

Shingrix vs. Zostavax: Which One Should You Choose?

There are two shingles vaccines available: Shingrix and Zostavax. However, Shingrix is the preferred choice because it’s more effective and provides longer-lasting protection. Here’s a quick comparison:

Shingrix: Over 90% effective at preventing shingles and PHN, requires two doses.
Zostavax: About 51% effective at preventing shingles, requires one dose.

Even if you’ve already received Zostavax, the CDC recommends getting Shingrix for better protection. Just make sure to wait at least eight weeks after receiving Zostavax before getting Shingrix.

Side Effects of the Shingles Vaccine

Like any vaccine, the shingles shot can cause side effects, but they’re usually mild and go away on their own. Common side effects include:

Soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site
Fatigue
Muscle pain
Headache
Nausea

These side effects are a small price to pay for the protection the vaccine provides. If you experience severe side effects, such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, seek medical attention immediately.

Can You Get the Shingles Shot at CVS Without an Appointment?

Yes, you can! CVS allows walk-ins for the shingles vaccine, so you don’t need to schedule an appointment. However, it’s always a good idea to call ahead and check if the vaccine is in stock at your local CVS pharmacy. Vaccines can sometimes be out of stock, and you don’t want to make a trip only to find out they’re not available.

If you prefer to schedule an appointment, you can do so online through the CVS website or app. This ensures that the vaccine is available and that a pharmacist is ready to administer it when you arrive.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your CVS Visit

Here are a few tips to make your CVS visit as smooth as possible:

Bring your insurance card if you have one.
Know your medical history and any allergies you might have.
Ask the pharmacist any questions you have about the vaccine.
Consider getting other vaccines while you’re there, like the flu shot.

By being prepared, you can make the most of your visit and ensure you get the protection you need.

Shingles Vaccine FAQs

Let’s address some common questions people have about the shingles vaccine:

Can You Get Shingles More Than Once?

Yes, it’s possible to get shingles more than once, although it’s rare. That’s why getting vaccinated is so important, even if you’ve already had shingles.

Is the Shingles Vaccine Safe?

Yes, the shingles vaccine is safe and effective. It’s been extensively studied and approved by the FDA and CDC. The benefits of getting vaccinated far outweigh the risks of side effects.

Can You Get the Shingles Vaccine if You’re Pregnant?

No, pregnant individuals should not get the shingles vaccine. If you’re pregnant, wait until after you’ve given birth and talk to your healthcare provider about getting vaccinated.

Conclusion: Protect Yourself, Protect Others

Getting the shingles vaccine is one of the best things you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones from this painful condition. CVS makes it easy and convenient to get vaccinated, with thousands of locations nationwide and trained pharmacists ready to help. Whether you’re walking in or scheduling an appointment, CVS has you covered.

So, what are you waiting for? Take charge of your health and get your shingles shot today. And don’t forget to share this article with your friends and family to spread the word about the importance of vaccination. Together, we can prevent shingles and live healthier, happier lives.