Is it dangerous to get the shingles vaccine?

The shingles vaccine is made from a weakened live virus, so it is safe for anyone with a healthy immune system, according to Healthline. However, women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant and people with weakened immune systems should avoid the vaccine, advises WebMD.

The immune system is often suppressed in people who have moderate or serious acute illnesses, HIV, AIDS, tuberculosis, or bone marrow or lymphatic system cancer, WebMD states. Radiation and chemotherapy lower immune response, as do certain drugs such as steroids, reports Mayo Clinic. In addition, people with allergies to any elements of the shingles vaccine, such as gelatin or neomycin -- an antibiotic -- are not good candidates.