Shingles Vaccine Medicare Coverage and Cost Information

Currently, one in three persons who have had chickenpox will develop shingles sometime in their life. It is possible to prevent getting this disease by way of a vaccine that was approved for shingles in 2006 called Zostavax. The recommendation is people who are 60 years of age and up get this vaccine to protect themselves from this very painful condition.

Shingles, or Herpes zoster, is caused by the same virus (varicella zoster, VZV) that causes chickenpox. It is characterized by pain, red rash, and painful fluid filled blisters. The virus is never eliminated from the body, but instead lives in a dormant stage in the nervous system. The virus can be reactivated when the person is subject to prolonged stress, or through the treatment certain illnesses such as cancer. Getting vaccinated with Zostavax, a chickenpox booster, can help prevent it's painful occurrence, as well as reduce the risk of complications such as posterherpetic neuralgia.

Is it covered by Medicare?

Presently, no, Medicare does not cover the shingles vaccination. It is possible that Medicare may cover it sometime in the future. Zostavax has been given the nod for people 60 and older to receive this preventative vaccine. Medicare Part B covers only the flu, pneumococcal, and hepatitis B vaccines.

How much does it cost?

Reportedly, Merck is charging $150 to administer the Zostavax vaccine. Of course, the medical professionals such as hospitals and doctors mark up this price to about $300. This could prove to be cost prohibitive to those who do not have medical coverage, or can not otherwise afford it. If you do have health insurance other than medicare, check your policy to see if this vaccine is covered by your individual plan.

Shingles occurs only in people who have had a prior case of chickenpox. Zoster can not be passed on to someone else as shingles. However, the virus that causes shingles can be passed to another via person to person contact, but if that person never had chickenpox, could end up with chickenpox. So if you have never had chickenpox, avoid people who are in the throes of an active shingles event. If the person's blisters are crusted over the virus is no longer contagious.

Who should not get the vaccine?

The vaccine is not for everyone. There are certain underlying conditions that make a person not a good candidate for it. these conditions include:

• HIV/AIDS


• Any immune disturbance


• People who have had chemotherapy treatment for cancer


• History of cancer


• If you are currently suffering from any illness


• if you are on steroids or anti-rejection drugs


• If you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant

If you are planning to get this vaccine, avoid pregnancy for at least three months after having the injection.The vaccine carries very little risk, however there is always the chance of having a reaction, particularly if you have an allergy to gelatin. check with your health care provider to see if this vaccine will benefit you.

VSV is preventable. One of the greatest causes for it's prevalence is undue prolonged emotional distress. Reducing your stress level can help to prevent an attack of the shingles. There are many ways to accomplish this, such as yoga, meditation, and imagery.

by Barb Hicks, RN/LMT