Table 1.
Vaccine | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|
Live, attenuated vaccine Zostavax® |
• Boosts both cellular and humoral immune responses |
• Contraindicated for people with weakened immune systems • Potential for shedding and therefore transmission to people with weakened immune system • Vaccine needs to stay frozen in order to remain potent • Immunity and efficacy wane with increasing age and with time since vaccination |
Subunit vaccine HZ/su |
• Only contains one viral protein, making it safe for immune‐deficient people and pregnant women |
• Requires 2 doses • High incidence of adverse events due to the potency of the adjuvant |
Heat‐inactivated V212 |
• Safe for immune‐deficient people and pregnant women • Does not require refrigeration |
• Stimulates a weaker immune response than live vaccines • Requires 4 doses, making compliance an issue |