Shingles
帶狀疱疹疫苗（俗稱「生蛇」疫苗）
Available in HK private clinics but not yet in the government programme. SCVPD review pending in 2026.
Shingrix
Shingles (herpes zoster) is caused by the varicella-zoster virus — the same virus that causes chickenpox. After chickenpox recovery, the virus stays dormant in your nervous system and can reactivate years later.
The result is a painful, blistering rash that typically appears as a band on one side of the body. Main complications: post-herpetic neuralgia (long-lasting nerve pain) and, rarely, vision loss if the eye is involved.
Shingrix is a recombinant non-live vaccine. Two doses, given 2-6 months apart. Efficacy against shingles in adults 50+ is around 97% in clinical trials, with protection holding for at least 10 years.
Important: Shingles vaccine is currently NOT part of the HK Government Vaccination Programme. No public subsidy.
SCVPD's current position: Shingrix is safe and effective. Individual older adults and immunocompromised adults may consider receiving the vaccine after consulting their doctor.
In practice, vaccination decisions are made one-on-one with a GP, paid out of pocket at private clinics. Typical cost: around HK$5,000 for the full 2-dose course.
US CDC and ACIP recommend Shingrix for all adults aged 50+, and for immunocompromised adults aged 19+. The international guidance is well-established.
Two doses of Shingrix, given 2 to 6 months apart.
For immunocompromised adults, the second dose can be given as early as 1-2 months after the first.
| Brand | Manufacturer | HK Reg No. |
|---|---|---|
| Shingrix · Recombinant zoster vaccine, adjuvanted | GSK |
Shingrix has a reactogenic profile — post-vaccination symptoms are common and can be intense for 1-3 days: significant arm soreness, fever, chills, muscle aches, fatigue.
This is normal and reflects the strong immune response that gives the vaccine its high efficacy. Plan to take it on a day when you do not need to be physically active.
Myth: I had chickenpox, so I'm immune to shingles.
Reality: The opposite. Anyone who had chickenpox carries the latent virus and can develop shingles. The vaccine targets this risk.
Myth: I had shingles once, so I can't get it again.
Reality: You can. Recurrence is uncommon but documented. Vaccination is still recommended after a prior episode.
Available at private GP clinics and hospitals in HK. No government-subsidised access currently. Discuss with your family doctor; expect to pay out of pocket.
- HK CHP — Recommendations on Herpes Zoster Vaccination · HK Scientific Committee on Vaccine Preventable Diseases (HK)
The recommender
Six questions.
A ranked list.
With the actual reasons.
Based on your age, health, and travel plans — using HK DH and CDC guidelines — a prioritised vaccine list with reasons, not vague advice.
Rule-based
Mapped to HK DH + CDC guidelines. Auditable. No black-box ML.
Private
All inputs stay on your device. Nothing stored, nothing shared.
Explained
Every recommendation comes with the reason. No vague advice.