How often does an adult need to get the shingles vaccine?

The shingles vaccine is a one-time immunization. People should receive the vaccine at age 60, as recommended by the CDC. The vaccine becomes less effective after five years, and people who receive immunizations before 60 could lose immunity when they need it most.

As of 2015, over 99 percent of Americans 40 and older have had chicken pox, which puts them at risk for shingles, according to the CDC. While the condition is not life-threatening, it is often debilitating. Individuals with a compromised immune system or an allergy to the ingredients in the vaccine should not receive the immunization. All Medicare Part D plans and some private insurance companies cover the cost of the vaccine.