What is the risk of shingles after a COVID booster according to the new study?

The study found a 21% increase in shingles risk within 28 days after an mRNA COVID-19 booster dose.

Are COVID vaccines causing shingles?

Researchers found a small, temporary link in some individuals but emphasized it does not prove the vaccine causes shingles.

Is there a link between shingles and dementia?

Yes, adults hospitalized with shingles were found to be seven times more likely to develop dementia.

Home / Health / COVID Booster May Slightly Raise Shingles Risk

COVID Booster May Slightly Raise Shingles Risk

19 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Shingles risk rose 7% after any COVID dose, 21% after mRNA booster.
A small, temporary link exists in some individuals, not a direct cause.
Hospitalized shingles patients had seven times higher dementia risk.

COVID Booster May Slightly Raise Shingles Risk

Recent research indicates a minor increase in shingles risk in the weeks after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine, especially booster doses. The study, analyzing millions of health records, found a 7% rise in shingles within 28 days of any dose and a 21% increase following mRNA boosters.

Scientists attribute this temporary link to potential short-term depletion of lymphocytes and reduced T-cell activity post-vaccination, which could allow the varicella-zoster virus to reactivate. However, the researchers stress this association does not prove causation and the risk is small, temporary, and limited to certain groups.