Pharmacy services at AU Health now offers Shingrix shingles vaccine and beginning this month, there is no cost for most patients.
Through the Inflation Reduction Act, which took effect Jan. 1, 2023, patients who have Medicare Part D can get the Shingrix vaccine with no out-of-pocket cost. Most other patients – about 95% – will also pay nothing for the vaccine.
Shingrix is the recommended vaccine for the prevention of shingles, a viral disease characterized by a painful skin rash with blisters. It is caused by the varicella zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox. People who have had chickenpox are at risk. An estimated 1 in 3 people will develop shingles in their lifetime.
The Shingrix vaccine reduces the risk of shingles and associated symptoms that occur due to the virus. It is given in two shots, two to six months apart. Anyone over 50 who has had chickenpox is encouraged to get the shingles vaccine.
People between 18 and 49 who are considered immunocompromised are also encouraged to get the vaccine.
For more information, talk with your primary care doctor or pharmacist, or call the Employee Pharmacy at 706-723-0900.
