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Medicines varicella-zoster virusQuestion & answer

varicella-zoster virus · Medicine question

Is Shingrix a live vaccine?

iatroX medicinesPublished 22 August 2026Reviewed 22 August 2026

The answer

Answer

No. Shingrix contains a recombinant viral protein and an adjuvant, not live virus.

Sources for this answer

Shingrix powder and suspension for suspension for injection, Herpes zoster vaccine (recombinant, adjuvanted)emc · SmPC Current selected SmPC · Version 13

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The full medicine guide

varicella-zoster virus

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More questions about varicella-zoster virus

What are these vaccines used for?Is Varilrix a live vaccine?Can vaccination treat shingles that has already started?Can vaccination be given during pregnancy?Can immunosuppressed people receive these vaccines?Why are Shingrix and Varilrix not interchangeable?

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