Herpes Zoster (Shingles)

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, which presents as a painful rash caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox (varicella). The risk of developing shingles increases with age and weakened immune function. The shingles vaccine is a vital tool in preventing this condition, which can lead to severe pain, complications such as postherpetic neuralgia (persistent nerve pain), and other health issues.

Vaccination against shingles is recommended for adults aged 50 and older, regardless of whether they remember having had chickenpox. The vaccine significantly reduces the risk of developing shingles and its associated complications. By preventing shingles, the vaccine also helps to alleviate the healthcare burden associated with treating this condition and improves the quality of life for older adults, who are most susceptible to severe outcomes from the virus.

The shingles vaccine is currently funded under the National Immunisation  Program (NIP) for all adults aged 65 years and over, as well as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged over 50 years and selected high risk patient groups.

The Benefits of Shingles Vaccination

  1. Reduced Risk of Shingles: The shingles vaccine greatly decreases the likelihood of developing shingles, thereby preventing the associated pain and discomfort of the disease.
  2. Prevention of Postherpetic Neuralgia (PHN): One of the most significant benefits is the reduction in the risk of postherpetic neuralgia, a chronic and often debilitating nerve pain condition that can persist long after the shingles rash has healed.
  3. Improved Quality of Life: By preventing shingles and its complications, the vaccine helps maintain a better quality of life for older adults, enabling them to remain active and healthy.
  4. Increased Immunity: The shingles vaccine helps boost the immune system’s ability to fight off the varicella-zoster virus, providing long-term protection against the disease.

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WholeLife Pharmacy & Healthfoods offers a comprehensive vaccination service.

Please contact your local WholeLife to book this vaccine.

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FAQs

What is the shingles vaccine?

The shingles vaccine protects against herpes zoster (shingles) and its complications.

Who should get the shingles vaccine?

The shingles vaccine is recommended for adults aged 50 and older. It is important even for those who do not recall having had chickenpox, as the varicella-zoster virus can remain dormant in the body and reactivate later in life.

Are there any side effects of the shingles vaccine?

Common side effects include pain, redness, and swelling at the injection site, as well as muscle pain, fatigue, headache, fever, and mild gastrointestinal symptoms. These side effects are generally mild and temporary.

Can the shingles vaccine cause shingles?

No, the shingles vaccine is designed to stimulate a vaccine-related immune response, to help protect your body and prevent shingles.

Do I need the shingles vaccine if I've already had shingles?

Yes, it is still recommended to get the shingles vaccine even if you have had shingles, especially for people 50 years and older. Vaccination can help prevent future occurrences and reduce the risk of complications such as postherpetic neuralgia.