Fewer than half of adults are receiving their free shingles vaccine within the first year of eligibility, according to new figures published by the UK Health Security Agency.
Data released today shows that by October 2025, uptake of the first dose of the Shingrix vaccine stood at:
- 42.1% among adults turning 66, who became eligible at age 65
- 53.5% among adults turning 71, who became eligible at age 70
This indicates that a significant proportion of eligible adults are not yet taking up the vaccine, despite shingles being a serious and painful condition that can lead to long‑term complications.
Shingles is caused by reactivation of the chickenpox (varicella‑zoster) virus. While anyone who has previously had chickenpox is at risk, the likelihood of shingles increases sharply with age.
The condition can cause:
- Severe pain lasting weeks
- Blistering rash
- Long‑term nerve damage (post‑herpetic neuralgia)
- Sensitivity to touch and skin complications
Dr Julie Yates, Deputy Director for Immunisation Programmes at the UKHSA, commented:
“Many of us will know someone who has suffered from shingles and spoken of just how painful it can be. Shingles can also have debilitating effects for months even after the rash has gone, and we know that 2 doses of this vaccine is highly effective in preventing shingles and its serious complications.
“We understand people are busy, and it can be easy to put things off, but this is a vaccine that can make a real difference to your quality of life. If you are eligible and contacted by your GP, please don’t put it off – make that appointment.”
Vaccination is the most effective way to reduce the risk and severity of shingles.
The Shingrix for All immunisation programme launched on 1 September 2023, offering two doses of the Shingrix vaccine to all immunocompetent individuals at age 65 or 70, and severely immunosuppressed adults aged 18 and over.
The programme is year‑round, and eligibility begins automatically when individuals reach the required age. Adults aged 70 to 80 should already have been offered the vaccine but are encouraged to catch up if they missed it.
UKHSA is encouraging people to take up the shingles vaccine as soon as they become eligible. Early vaccination reduces the chance of developing shingles and lowers the risk of severe complications caused by the virus.
Image credit: iStock
