Four years ago, my primary care physician suggested that we wait until Shingrix was available. Shingrix is the new two shot vaccine for shingles. The old vaccine was much less than 50% effective while Shingrix is supposed to be 90% effective.
My wife and I waited and got both of our doses in the second half of last year. The Fry’s pharmacy was able to deliver the shots and it was covered under our insurance.
Providers were having a hard time keeping the vaccine in stock. Our own doctor’s office ran out. Thankfully, the Fry’s pharmacy had enough for an initial dose. (They said they had less than 10 doses left when we got ours.) For the final dose, they called since they were giving preference to those customers who already had their first round of shots.
I’ve had two bouts of shingles. The last time was in September. Fortunately it was on my legs and pretty mild. Still, I don’t ever want it again.
I just had my first shot of Shingrix about a week ago. I tried to get it twice before, but they still have shortages. No side affects. About the same soreness as I’ve had from a flu shot. I have Medicare Advantage, but it still cost about $150 a shot. It’s worth it if I never get shingles again.