Shingles vaccine before seeing oncologist

Hi Josh360.

Thanks for getting in touch through our online community. I’m Helen and I’m one of the Macmillan cancer information nurse specialists on our support line. I hope you are finding it a supportive environment.

I’m sorry to hear about your wife’s diagnosis. It’s understandable she wishes to do all she can to keep fit and well prior to any treatment she might be offered.

The shingles vaccine is recommended for some older adults and people with a severely weakened immune system. Usually, when you become eligible for your shingles vaccine, your GP surgery will contact you to book an appointment. 

Most people who are eligible for the shingles vaccine can have it. The exception is if you've had a serious allergic reaction to a previous dose of the vaccine, or an ingredient in the vaccine.

Unfortunately, we don’t have access to individuals’ NHS records so cannot say for sure whether your wife would be eligible or whether it would be safe for her to have it.

The easiest way to find out if she can have the vaccine is to speak to her GP who can book an appointment for her if it’s appropriate.

I hope you found this information helpful. Please don’t hesitate to get back in contact with us if you need further information or support.  

Best wishes

Helen K

The Macmillan Support Line offers practical, clinical, financial and emotional support. You can call us free from landlines and from most mobile phone networks on 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week, 8am – 8pm or contact us by email or webchat. 

Ref: HK / HeP