Individuals at risk for shingles can now access vaccination through standard physician’s office visits, as the herpes zoster vaccine is now a covered benefit for those with statutory health insurance.
As of March 25, 2026, the vaccine for shingles is available to individuals 18 and older with increased risk factors through standard medical practice, and is now covered by Germany’s statutory health insurance. Regional agreements for vaccination have been finalized, according to GSK, allowing for immediate access and billing.
The updated recommendation from the Standing Committee on Vaccination (Stiko) was published in the Federal Gazette in February and has been in effect since then. The inclusion in regional vaccination agreements enables billing through the standard medical practice (SSB). GSK reports that implementation occurred rapidly across several regions, ensuring broad and swift access to the vaccine.
What’s Recent?
Previously, the vaccination recommendation applied to individuals aged 50 to 59. Now, the Stiko recommendation extends to those 18 years and older who have an increased risk of illness due to congenital or acquired immunodeficiency, or severe underlying conditions. This expanded access is important as shingles can cause significant pain and complications.
The standard recommendation for all individuals 60 years and older remains unchanged.
Vaccination according to the Stiko recommendation with the adjuvanted subunit vaccine Shingrix is a covered benefit for statutory health insurance.
Shingles, as well known as herpes zoster, causes intense pain and a rash of fluid-filled blisters. The condition is triggered by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Chickenpox is considered the initial infection. Reactivation of the virus can occur due to factors like stress, UV radiation, a weakened immune system, or increasing age, resulting in a localized shingles rash.
Das könnte dich auch interessieren
Mehr aus dieser Kategorie
