If you are vaccinated against chickenpox can still get shingles?

Yes, it is possible to get shingles even if you are vaccinated against chickenpox. However, the risk of developing shingles is significantly reduced in vaccinated individuals compared to unvaccinated individuals. The chickenpox vaccine is effective in preventing chickenpox, but it does not provide complete immunity against the virus that causes shingles, known as the varicella-zoster virus (VZV).

After a person has chickenpox, the VZV can remain dormant in the body for many years. In some cases, the virus can reactivate and cause shingles, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems. Factors such as aging, stress, certain medical conditions, or medications that suppress the immune system can increase the risk of shingles.

While the chickenpox vaccine does not completely eliminate the possibility of developing shingles, it significantly reduces the risk by approximately 90%. Individuals who are vaccinated against chickenpox are less likely to develop shingles and, if they do, the severity and duration of the outbreak may be reduced compared to unvaccinated individuals.

It is recommended to get vaccinated against chickenpox to reduce the risk of both chickenpox and shingles. Vaccination is particularly important for children and adults who have not had chickenpox before or who are at risk of developing shingles due to weakened immune systems.