Shingles is a viral skin infection caused by varicella-zoster, the same virus responsible for chickenpox outbreaks, the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library reports. A vaccine injection for shingles can help protect adults over the age of 60 who have been exposed to chickenpox from developing shingles. Before receiving this immunization, adults should discuss the potential side effects of the vaccine injection for shingles with a medical professional.
Headache Pain
After receiving a vaccine injection for shingles, patients can experience headache pain or discomfort as a side effect. Head pain is rare and affects less than 2 percent of treated patients, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Patients who are bothered by headache pain can take an over-the-counter pain medication to help diminish discomfort. If headache pain persists or occurs in conjunction with a high fever, affected patients should contact a medical professional immediately.
Skin Reaction at Injection Site
An injection to protect against shingles can cause skin side effects in certain patients. Approximately 33 percent of people treated with the shingles injection during clinical trials experienced injection site pain, redness or tenderness, according to Merck, the pharmaceutical company that distributes the shingles vaccine. Patients can also notice minor skin discoloration or bruising, a side effect called hematoma, near the site of treatment. Additional skin reactions include itching, swelling or unusual warmth. These side effects of the shingles injection typically arise shortly after patients receive treatment and can persist for several days.
Hypersensitive Reaction
People who are allergic or hypersensitive to any of the components of the shingles injection, such as neomycin or gelatin, can experience a potentially life-threatening hypersensitivity reaction following treatment. Common symptoms of this type of allergic reaction include increased heart rate, pale skin, hives, lightheadedness, throat swelling, vocal hoarseness or wheezing, the CDC warns. Anyone who develops these symptoms should receive immediate, emergency care from a medical professional.
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