Shingles Vaccine in Werribee
Harpley Doctors gives the shingles vaccine in Werribee at our clinic in Harpley Town Centre. Shingles is a painful rash caused by the chickenpox virus waking up again, and the risk rises with age. The vaccine is free for many older adults and people at higher risk under the National Immunisation Program. This page explains who is eligible, how many doses you need and how to book. See Patient Info and Fees for fees and practice policies.
Who can get a free shingles vaccine in Werribee
The Department of Health shingles guidance lists the vaccine, given as two doses, as free for:
- people aged 65 and over
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 and over
- people aged 18 and over at increased risk because of a medical condition or treatment that weakens the immune system
Who else is recommended it
The Australian Immunisation Handbook recommends the vaccine for everyone aged 50 and over, and for adults aged 18 and over with a weakened immune system. If you are not eligible for a free dose, you can still have the shingles vaccine at our clinic.
Two doses
The vaccine is given as two doses, two to six months apart, or one to two months apart for people with a weakened immune system. If you have had the older shingles vaccine, your GP will check how long to wait before the newer one.
What happens at your appointment
Your GP confirms eligibility and gives the first dose, then you book the second. Afterwards you stay at the clinic for at least 15 minutes, as the Australian Immunisation Handbook recommends, and you should not drive during that time. The shingles vaccine can be given at the same visit as your flu vaccine, pneumococcal vaccine or COVID-19 vaccine.
Booking your shingles vaccine
To make an appointment, book online or call (03) 8731 1330; we are open seven days. If you live with a long-term condition, our GPs can include vaccines in your chronic condition management and health assessment. See Immunisation, Seasonal Vaccines and our Medical Check-Ups for more, and new patients can fill in the new patient form first.
Frequently asked questions
Is the shingles vaccine free?
It is free for people aged 65 and over, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 and over, and people aged 18 and over at higher risk because of a weakened immune system.
How many doses do I need?
Two doses, usually two to six months apart.
Can I have it with my flu vaccine?
Yes, the two can be given at the same appointment.
Other services
Book your shingles vaccine
Book online or call reception, and bring your Medicare card.