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.

Further findings revealed a significant correlation between shingles and dementia, with hospitalized patients being seven times more likely to develop the cognitive condition. This adds to growing concerns about potential side effects, with reports suggesting the FDA is considering a "black box" warning for COVID-19 vaccines.