Which of the following is a contraindication to Zostavax vaccination?

• A. Life-threatening allergy to gelatin or neomycin
• B. Immunocompetent status
• C. Age 60 or older
• D. History of shingles

Answer: (A)

Zostavax is a live attenuated vaccine, so it can cause serious problems in people with severe allergic reactions to components of the vaccine. A life-threatening allergy to gelatin or neomycin is a clear contraindication because exposure could trigger a dangerous anaphylactic reaction.

The other statements do not prevent vaccination. Being immunocompetent means you can respond to the vaccine. The vaccine is intended for people aged 60 or older, so that age is not a contraindication. A history of shingles does not by itself prevent vaccination; vaccination is generally not contraindicated after recovery from a shingles episode (though vaccination isn’t given during an active outbreak).