Rx
🏭 GSK
❄️ Cold Chain
🧬 Recombinant + AS01B
💉 2-Dose Series
⭐ 97% Efficacy
Shingrix® · GSK · 0.5 mL Dose (after reconstitution) · 2 Vials: Antigen (lyophilized powder) + AS01B Adjuvant · Intramuscular
Storage: 2–8°C · Protect from light · Reconstitute before use · Use within 6 hours of mixing · GSK India
💉 Shingrix 2-Dose Schedule
Dose 1
First Injection
Day 0 · Any time
Antigen + AS01B reconstituted
Deltoid IM injection
Antigen + AS01B reconstituted
Deltoid IM injection
→
Dose 2
Second Injection
2 to 6 months after Dose 1
Same reconstitution process
Opposite arm preferred
Same reconstitution process
Opposite arm preferred
⚠️ Both doses are essential. Full 97% protection is only achieved after completing BOTH doses. If Dose 2 is delayed beyond 6 months, efficacy may be reduced — contact VacciHub for your Dose 2 reminder and booking. We track your 2-dose schedule and send WhatsApp reminders.
🦠 What is Shingles (Herpes Zoster)? Why Vaccinate?
What is Shingles?
Shingles is a painful reactivation of the Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV) — the same virus that causes chickenpox. After chickenpox, VZV lies dormant in nerve roots. As immunity wanes with age, the virus can reactivate causing a painful, blistering rash along a nerve pathway.
Lifetime Risk
1 in 3 people who have had chickenpox will develop shingles in their lifetime. Risk increases sharply after age 50. By age 80, nearly 50% of people will have experienced shingles. India's growing elderly population makes this an urgent public health issue.
Postherpetic Neuralgia (PHN)
The most feared complication — severe chronic nerve pain lasting months or years after the rash heals. Affects 10–15% of shingles patients. Can be completely debilitating. Shingrix provides 89% efficacy against PHN as well as shingles itself.
Other Complications
Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus (eye involvement — can cause vision loss), hearing loss (Ramsay Hunt syndrome), bacterial skin infections, pneumonia, encephalitis. Shingrix prevents not just shingles but all these serious complications.
Why Shingrix Over Other Options
Shingrix is the first recombinant herpes zoster vaccine. The AS01B adjuvant system generates an extraordinarily powerful immune response — far stronger than older live vaccines. No live virus means it is safe even for immunocompromised patients.
India Context
Almost all Indian adults have had chickenpox — making them all VZV carriers at risk of shingles. With 100+ million Indians aged 50+ and growing, shingles prevention is a critical but underserved need. VacciHub makes Shingrix accessible at home.
👥 Who Should Get Shingrix?
Adults 50 Years and Older ⭐
Primary target group. All adults aged 50+ should receive both Shingrix doses regardless of whether they recall having chickenpox or a prior shingles episode. Most Indians have had chickenpox even without knowing.
Adults 70+ Years – Priority
Risk of shingles and PHN increases sharply with age. Immunity wanes fastest in the elderly. Shingrix provides 91% efficacy even at 70+ — making it critically important for this age group.
Immunocompromised Adults 18+
HIV patients, cancer patients on chemotherapy, transplant recipients and others on long-term immunosuppressants are at dramatically increased risk of shingles. Shingrix has NO live virus — safe for all these groups.
Steroid / Immunosuppressant Users
Long-term use of corticosteroids, biologics (adalimumab, etanercept), DMARDs or JAK inhibitors significantly raises shingles risk. These patients should discuss Shingrix with their rheumatologist or physician.
Previously Vaccinated with Zostavax
GSK and global health authorities recommend Shingrix even for adults who previously received Zostavax (older live shingles vaccine). Shingrix provides substantially superior long-term protection.
Previous Shingles Episode
Having had shingles before does NOT protect against future episodes. Vaccination with Shingrix is recommended after recovery from shingles (usually wait 1 year). Prevents painful recurrence.
🔬 Shingrix Composition – Per 0.5 mL Reconstituted Dose
Shingrix comes as 2 separate vials that must be reconstituted before administration. After reconstitution, each 0.5 mL contains:
| Component | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| VIAL 1 – ANTIGEN (Lyophilized Powder · Brown Cap) | ||
| Recombinant Varicella Zoster Virus Glycoprotein E (VZV gE) | 50 µg | Recombinant subunit antigen — no live virus. Produced in CHO cells. Lyophilized (freeze-dried powder). |
| VIAL 2 – AS01B ADJUVANT SUSPENSION (Blue-Green Cap) | ||
| 3-O-desacyl-4'-monophosphoryl lipid A (MPL) | 50 µg | AS01B component — TLR4 agonist activating innate immunity |
| QS-21 (Quillaja saponaria Molina extract) | 50 µg | AS01B component — saponin adjuvant, amplifies CD4+ T-cell response |
| KEY NOTES | ||
| Reconstitution | Mix Vial 2 (adjuvant) into Vial 1 (antigen powder) | Shake gently until dissolved. See reconstitution section. |
| Use after reconstitution | Within 6 hours | Store at 2–8°C if not used immediately. Discard after 6 hours. |
| Does NOT contain | — | No live virus · No thimerosal · No latex |
💡 AS01B Adjuvant System — Why It Matters: The AS01B adjuvant is what makes Shingrix extraordinarily effective. MPL activates innate immune toll-like receptors, while QS-21 dramatically amplifies CD4+ T-helper cell responses. Together they generate a uniquely powerful and durable immune response — explaining Shingrix's 97% efficacy vs older live vaccine's ~50%. VacciHub nurses are trained in the precise two-step reconstitution process required for Shingrix.
⚗️ How Shingrix is Reconstituted (Step-by-Step)
Shingrix requires careful reconstitution before injection. Our VacciHub nurses are fully trained in this process:
1
Identify the two vials: Vial 1 = Antigen (lyophilized powder, brown cap). Vial 2 = AS01B Adjuvant suspension (blue-green cap).
2
Draw up Adjuvant: Using a syringe, withdraw the entire contents of Vial 2 (AS01B adjuvant suspension).
3
Add to Antigen vial: Inject the entire contents of Vial 2 (adjuvant) into Vial 1 (the lyophilized antigen powder). This is the reconstitution step.
4
Shake gently until the powder is completely dissolved. The reconstituted vaccine should appear as an opalescent, colourless to pale brownish liquid.
5
Inspect and administer: Visually inspect for particulate matter and discolouration. Draw up 0.5 mL from the reconstituted vial and inject intramuscularly into the deltoid region.
6
Time limit: Use within 6 hours of reconstitution. If not used promptly, store at 2–8°C and discard after 6 hours. Shake the reconstituted vaccine well before use.
✅ VacciHub nurses carry Shingrix in validated cold boxes (2–8°C), perform reconstitution at your home just before injection and administer both Dose 1 and Dose 2 (2–6 months later) with full protocol compliance.
⚙️ How Does Shingrix Work?
1
VZV gE Antigen + AS01B Adjuvant Injected
After reconstitution, 0.5 mL is injected IM into the deltoid. The recombinant VZV Glycoprotein E (50 µg) — the key surface protein of the Varicella Zoster Virus — is delivered alongside the powerful AS01B adjuvant system.
2
AS01B Activates Innate & Adaptive Immunity
MPL (TLR4 agonist) activates innate immune pathways and dendritic cells. QS-21 saponin amplifies antigen presentation. Together, AS01B creates an immune microenvironment that drives exceptionally strong CD4+ T-cell responses — far beyond what a plain antigen could achieve.
3
Anti-gE Antibodies + CD4+ T-cell Memory
Both humoral (antibody) and cell-mediated (T-cell) immunity are generated. The gE-specific CD4+ T-cells are crucial — they maintain viral latency control and rapidly eliminate reactivating VZV before it can cause shingles. This T-cell response is what wanes with age, and Shingrix powerfully restores it.
4
97% Efficacy — Long-lasting
After Dose 2, protective immunity peaks within 1–2 months. The AS01B-driven immune response is remarkably durable — efficacy remains above 85% at 7+ years. The 2-dose regimen is essential to achieve and sustain this level of protection.
⚠️ Shingrix Side Effects
Shingrix has stronger short-term side effects than most vaccines — this is expected and reflects the potent AS01B adjuvant activating your immune system. Side effects are generally temporary (2–3 days) and indicate the vaccine is working.
💡 Important: About 1 in 6 Shingrix recipients experience side effects strong enough to temporarily limit daily activities for 2–3 days. Plan your vaccination timing around this — avoid Dose 1 or 2 immediately before a major event or trip.
🟡 Very Common (Expected)
- 💉 Injection-site pain — very common, often intense
- 🔴 Injection-site redness, swelling
- 🤧 Shivering / chills
- 🌡️ Fever (may be moderate)
- 😴 Fatigue — can be significant
- 🤕 Headache, muscle aches
- 🤢 GI symptoms (nausea, vomiting)
🔴 Rare – Seek Medical Attention
- 🚨 Anaphylaxis (extremely rare)
- ⚡ Severe allergic reaction
- 😵 Syncope (fainting)
- 🤒 High fever (>40°C) persisting
💡 What to expect: Side effects from Dose 2 may be stronger than Dose 1. Paracetamol or ibuprofen can be taken for pain/fever after vaccination (not before). Hydrate well. Our VacciHub nurses advise on post-vaccination care and observe for 30 minutes before leaving.
⚖️ Shingrix vs Zostavax – Comparison
| Feature | Shingrix (GSK) | Zostavax (MSD) – Older |
|---|---|---|
| Vaccine Type | ✓ Recombinant subunit + adjuvant | Live attenuated (weakened VZV) |
| Contains Live Virus | ✓ No — safe for immunocompromised | Yes — contraindicated in immunocompromised |
| Efficacy (50–59 yrs) | ✓ ~97% | ~70% |
| Efficacy (70+ yrs) | ✓ ~91% | ~38% |
| PHN Prevention | ✓ ~89% | ~67% |
| Duration of protection | ✓ 7+ years (85%+ maintained) | Wanes significantly after 5 years |
| Doses required | 2 doses (2–6 months apart) | 1 dose |
| Safe in HIV / cancer | ✓ Yes — no live virus | Generally NO |
| WHO / Global preference | ✓ Preferred over Zostavax | Being replaced by Shingrix globally |
| Even those previously vaccinated with Zostavax should get Shingrix for superior protection | ||
🚫 Precautions & Contraindications
Do NOT give Shingrix if:
- Known hypersensitivity to any component of Shingrix (including MPL, QS-21)
- Anaphylaxis to a prior Shingrix dose
- Active primary varicella (chickenpox) infection — defer
- Acute severe febrile illness on vaccination day — defer until recovery (mild illness is NOT a reason to postpone)
Special Considerations:
- Pregnancy: Not recommended during pregnancy — discuss with doctor. No live virus so accidental exposure risk is low.
- Breastfeeding: Limited data — discuss benefit vs risk with doctor.
- Anticoagulants: Use firm pressure at injection site to minimise bleeding risk.
- Concurrent vaccines: Shingrix can generally be given with other adult vaccines at different sites — discuss with doctor.
ℹ️ Immunocompromised patients: Unlike older live herpes zoster vaccines, Shingrix has no live virus and is safe for HIV patients, cancer patients on chemotherapy, transplant recipients and those on immunosuppressive medications. Immune response may be somewhat lower but Shingrix is still recommended and beneficial.
⚠️ Storage: 2°C to 8°C. Do NOT freeze. Store in original package to protect from light. After reconstitution — use within 6 hours or discard. VacciHub nurses perform reconstitution on-site and administer immediately.
🏥 Why Book Shingrix with VacciHub?
Trained in Reconstitution
Shingrix requires a precise 2-vial reconstitution process. VacciHub nurses are specifically trained in this protocol — antigen + adjuvant mixing, dissolution verification and proper administration.
Cold Chain + Light Protection
Shingrix must stay 2–8°C AND be protected from light. Our validated cold boxes and light-protective packaging maintain both requirements throughout every home visit.
2-Dose Schedule Tracking
We track your Dose 1 date and automatically set a WhatsApp reminder for Dose 2 at the correct 2–6 month window. Never miss your second dose or let the interval lapse.
Home Comfort for Seniors
Shingrix is most important for adults 50+. Avoid hospital trips and long waits. Our nurse comes to your home — perfect for elderly patients, especially those with mobility limitations.
100% Genuine GSK
Sourced from authorised GSK distributors only. Batch numbers verifiable. No counterfeit risk. MFG and EXP details shared on your WhatsApp vaccination record.
Post-Vaccination Monitoring
Shingrix has stronger side effects than most vaccines. Our nurses stay 30 minutes post-injection to monitor, advise on side effect management and ensure your comfort.
📍 Shingrix Home Vaccination – Cities We Cover
🏛️Delhi (All Areas)
🏙️Gurgaon
🌆Noida
🏘️Ghaziabad
🏗️Faridabad
🌇Greater Noida
Call +91 92050 04114 to confirm coverage — same-day slots available.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions – Shingrix Vaccine
Shingrix is a Herpes Zoster (Shingles) Vaccine, Recombinant Adjuvanted by GSK. It contains recombinant VZV Glycoprotein E (50 µg) combined with the proprietary AS01B adjuvant system. Clinical trials show ~97% efficacy against shingles in adults aged 50–69 and ~91% in adults 70+. It also provides ~89% protection against Postherpetic Neuralgia (PHN) — the most feared complication. Efficacy remains above 85% at 7+ years post-vaccination.
Shingrix requires 2 doses: Dose 1 at any time, Dose 2 given 2 to 6 months after Dose 1. Both doses are essential — full 97% protection is only achieved after completing the 2-dose series. VacciHub tracks your Dose 1 date and automatically sends a WhatsApp reminder for Dose 2 at the right time.
Shingrix is far superior in multiple ways: Efficacy: ~97% vs ~51% for Zostavax. Durability: 85%+ at 7 years vs significant waning after 5 years. Safety profile: No live virus — safe for immunocompromised patients (HIV, cancer, transplant) where Zostavax is contraindicated. Age: High efficacy even in 70+ (91%) vs poor efficacy for Zostavax at old age (38%). Shingrix is now the WHO-preferred herpes zoster vaccine globally.
Shingrix has stronger short-term side effects than most vaccines — due to the potent AS01B adjuvant. Expect: strong injection-site pain/redness/swelling, shivering, fever, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, GI symptoms for 2–3 days. About 1 in 6 people are temporarily limited in daily activities. Plan vaccination timing around this. Paracetamol/ibuprofen after (not before) vaccination helps. These strong reactions confirm the adjuvant is working. Serious adverse events are very rare.
Yes — Shingrix contains no live virus and is safe for immunocompromised individuals including HIV patients, cancer patients on chemotherapy, transplant recipients and those on immunosuppressive medications (steroids, biologics, DMARDs). This is a key advantage over Zostavax which is contraindicated in these groups. Immune response may be somewhat reduced but vaccination is still recommended and beneficial. Always consult your treating physician before vaccination.
Yes. A previous shingles episode does NOT provide reliable long-term immunity against future episodes. Shingrix is recommended for all adults 50+ regardless of prior shingles history. Wait approximately 6–12 months after recovery from a shingles episode before getting vaccinated. Discuss timing with your doctor.
Yes. VacciHub provides home vaccination with genuine GSK Shingrix across Delhi, Gurgaon, Noida, Ghaziabad, Faridabad and Greater Noida. Our nurses are trained in the 2-vial reconstitution protocol and administer both Dose 1 and Dose 2 with full cold chain compliance. We track your schedule and send Dose 2 reminders. Call +91 92050 04114 or WhatsApp to book.
Vial 1 (brown cap) contains the antigen — recombinant VZV Glycoprotein E (gE) as lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder. Vial 2 (blue-green cap) contains the AS01B adjuvant suspension — a liquid combination of MPL and QS-21. Before injection, the entire contents of Vial 2 must be added to Vial 1, shaken gently until dissolved, and then 0.5 mL drawn and injected IM. VacciHub nurses perform this reconstitution at your home just before administration.