Over 50? Here’s What You Need to Know About Shingles and RSV Vaccines in Australia

Shingles & RSV Vaccines: What You Need to Know as You Age

If you’re over 50, your immune system isn’t as strong as it used to be. As we get older, our immune system naturally weakens — a process called immunosenescence. This makes us more vulnerable to infections and their complications.

Turning 50 is a good time to check more than just your health — it’s time to check your immunisation status too.

Let’s talk about two important vaccines: Shingles and RSV 👇

Shingles (Herpes Zoster)

Shingles is caused by reactivation of the same virus that causes chickenpox (varicella zoster virus).

• Around 1 in 3 people will develop shingles in their lifetime (NCIRS)

• Risk increases significantly after age 50

• About 20% of cases develop post-herpetic neuralgia — a persistent nerve pain that can last months to years

💉 Vaccine available in Australia:

• Shingrix (2-dose course)

• Second dose usually given 2–6 months later

• Immunocompromised individuals: 1–2 months apart

💡 Who can get it?

• Adults ≥50 years

• Adults ≥18 years who are immunocompromised

💰 Cost:

• Free under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) if eligible

• Otherwise available privately for those aged 50–64 or at increased risk

RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)

RSV affects all ages — but can be serious in older adults, especially those with underlying conditions.

Higher risk groups include:

• Adults ≥75 years

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults ≥60 years

• Adults ≥60 years with chronic medical conditions

💉 RSV Vaccine:

• Recommended for at-risk older adults

• Costs around $280–$300 privately (not funded under NIP as of Jan 2026)

📍 Victoria update:

• Arexvy RSV vaccine is now free for residents aged ≥60 in public residential aged care services

Why this matters

Immunisation is a national priority in Australia — yet many eligible adults remain unvaccinated, particularly for shingles.

Vaccination helps reduce the risk of:

✔ Severe illness ✔ Hospitalisation ✔ Long-term complications like nerve pain

References

• National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS) – Shingles (Herpes Zoster) fact sheet

• Australian Government Department of Health – National Immunisation Program (NIP) Schedule

• Australian Immunisation Handbook – Herpes Zoster & RSV chapters

• Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) – Shingrix & Arexvy product information

• Victorian Department of Health – RSV vaccine program updates (2026)

Disclaimer

This information is general in nature and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Vaccine eligibility and suitability may vary depending on your individual health conditions and risk factors. Please speak with your GP or pharmacist for advice tailored to you.