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What should I discuss with my health care provider before receiving zoster vaccine live (Zostavax)?

You should not receive this vaccine if you have:

• active untreated tuberculosis;
• leukemia, lymphoma, or other cancer affecting bone marrow;
• a history of allergic reaction to gelatin or neomycin (Mycifradin, Neo-Fradin, Neo-Tab);
• a weak immune system caused by disease (such as HIV or AIDS), or by receiving medications such as steroids or chemotherapy; or
• if you are pregnant.

To make sure you can safely receive zoster vaccine, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:

• a history of allergic reaction to any vaccine;
• if you have received a "live" vaccine within the past 4 weeks; or
• if you have never had chickenpox.

You can still receive a vaccine if you have a minor cold. If you have tuberculosis, or any other severe illness with a fever or any type of infection, wait until you get better before receiving this vaccine.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether zoster vaccine is harmful to an unborn baby. However, this vaccine is not for use in women of child-bearing age and should not be given to a pregnant woman

It is not known whether zoster vaccine passes into breast milk, or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Zoster vaccine should not be given to a child.

How is zoster vaccine given (Zostavax)?

Zoster vaccine is given as an injection under the skin. You will receive this vaccine in a doctor's office or other clinic setting.

Zoster vaccine is usually given as a one-time injection. Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, you will not need a booster vaccine.

You may receive other vaccines at the same time you receive zoster vaccine.

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