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Since shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox, should Shingrix be used to vaccinate against chickenpox?

Updated by HEALTHIERSG

For persons who never had a chickenpox infection, the chickenpox (varicella) vaccine should be given instead of Shingrix. A blood test can be conducted for persons who are unsure if they had chickenpox before. If they are found to be non-immune to varicella, the chickenpox vaccine should be given instead of Shingrix. Although Shingrix is also safe for those who have never had chickenpox before, it does not protect against chickenpox infection.

The chickenpox (varicella) vaccine is recommended and subsidised for children and non-immune adults as part of the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS) and NAIS. MediSave can also be used to offset costs.

Topics:

Healthier SG Vaccinations

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