France’s health authorities have introduced a new, more effective shingles vaccine, Shingrix, as part of its official vaccination program, following its recommendation in spring 2024. The vaccine, which is already available in other countries, replaces the previous, less effective Zostavax.
Although it was recommended earlier in 2024, it wasn’t until December that Shingrix was officially included in France’s vaccination schedule. The vaccine is now recommended for individuals over the age of 65, as well as for those aged 18 and older who are immunocompromised.
While the French health system does not fully cover the cost of the vaccine, individuals within these groups can receive a 65% reimbursement, provided they are enrolled in the country’s health coverage. The remaining 35% is typically covered by supplementary mutuelle health insurance policies.
Despite the reimbursement, the vaccine remains costly, priced at approximately €187 per dose. Of this, the state reimburses €122. Shingrix is administered in two doses, spaced two months apart, with a one-year waiting period required between the last shingles infection or a prior Zostavax vaccination.
Before December 2024, Shingrix could only be administered at state hospitals or private clinics. However, it can now be prescribed and administered by doctors, nurses, and pharmacists, making access to the vaccine more widespread.
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