Shingrix vaccination rates surge after joining the NIP
23 Jan 2026
According to research from the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance, over 2.5 million Shingrix doses were given in the first year of the NIP program. This included 1.5 million first doses, 1 million second doses, and a small number of additional booster doses.
By comparison, only 97,000 Shingrix doses and 177,000 Zostavax doses were given in the year before Shingrix replaced Zostavax in November 2023. Overall, around one-third of eligible adults received at least one Shingrix dose during the first year, with the majority delivered through general practices.
The study found vaccination was highest among women, people aged 75–79, and residents of regional or more affluent areas, while remote and less advantaged communities had lower uptake.
Researchers noted that less than half of adults aged 65 and over currently have strong protection against shingles. They highlighted Shingrix’s better effectiveness, longer-lasting immunity, and suitability for people with weakened immune systems as key advantages.
To increase protection, the study recommends promoting opportunistic vaccination, offering Shingrix alongside other vaccines, and targeting groups with lower coverage.
A two-dose course of Shingrix is available through the NIP for:
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Adults aged 65 and over
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Adults aged 18 and over at higher risk of shingles due to medical conditions or treatments that affect the immune system
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Source: National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance
