Why More Australians Are Talking About Shingles

Many older Australians had chickenpox during childhood, but what some people don’t realise is that the same virus can reactivate later in life as shingles.

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection that commonly causes a painful rash, usually on one side of the body or face. While many people recover within a few weeks, shingles can sometimes have a longer-lasting impact on health and wellbeing.

Risk increases with age, particularly over 50, which is why shingles prevention and vaccination have become an important part of healthy ageing conversations.

Who is most at risk?

While shingles can occur at almost any age and the risk increases significantly with age. This is because our immune system naturally becomes less effective over time.

Adults over 50 are at greater risk, and the likelihood of complications also rises with age. People who are immunocompromised, including those undergoing cancer treatment, living with certain medical conditions, or taking immunosuppressive medications, may also be more vulnerable.

Importantly, even healthy and active adults can develop shingles. Many people are surprised by how painful and exhausting it can be.

What does Shingles feel like?

For many people, shingles begins before the rash appears.

Early symptoms can include

• Headache
• Fatigue
• Sensitivity to light
• Tingling, itching and pain on one side of the body

This is usually followed by a blistering rash that appears in a band-like pattern, most commonly across the torso or face. In many cases, shingles is self-limiting and the rash resolves within a couple of weeks.

However, complications become more common with increasing age.

Understanding the longer-term Impact

One of the most common complications is post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), a persistent nerve pain that can continue for months, or occasionally longer, after the rash has resolved. Some people describe the sensation as burning, stabbing or extreme skin sensitivity.

If you ever experience symptoms of a shingles rash, it is important to consult with your pharmacist or GP immediately, as the earlier you can start anti-viral medication, this will help reduce the risk and duration of post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN).  Some pharmacists may also be qualified to prescribe anti-viral treatment for a shingles infection, so that you can access this medication as quickly as possible.

For some individuals, shingles may also affect sleep, exercise, concentration and day-to-day comfort during recovery. In more severe cases, complications involving the eyes, hearing or nervous system can occur.

The good news? Vaccination has become one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of shingles and its complications.

Protecting yourself against Shingles

In Australia, shingles vaccination is recommended for adults aged 65 years and over, and for certain younger people who are at increased risk due to immunocompromising conditions. Eligible groups may be able to access vaccination under the National Immunisation Program (NIP).

Vaccination works by boosting the immune system’s ability to keep the virus suppressed, helping reduce both the risk of developing shingles and the severity of illness if it does occur.

Even if you’ve had shingles previously, vaccination may still be recommended, as repeat episodes can occur. Your knowledgeable WholeLife Pharmacy & Healthfoods pharmacist or GP can help determine what is appropriate for your circumstances.

Current Australian data suggests shingles vaccination coverage is improving, although many eligible Australians remain unvaccinated.

When should you consider speaking to a health professional?

It may be worth having a conversation about shingles vaccination if you:

• Are aged 50 years or older
• Have a weakened immune system
• Care for vulnerable family members
• Have previously experienced shingles
• Are unsure of your vaccination history

Vaccines are administered by a qualified pharmacist or authorised immuniser, subject to vaccine availability and pharmacist clinical assessment. Charges may apply. Some patient groups may be eligible for free vaccination under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) or state-funded programs.

Shingles vaccination services are also subject to patient eligibility and pharmacist pre-screening. Service fees may apply and may not be subsidised by Medicare. Vaccination may not be suitable for everyone and, in some cases, referral to a medical practitioner may be recommended for further assessment. If you are unsure whether shingles vaccination is right for you, speak with your WholeLife Pharmacy & Healthfoods pharmacist or your GP.

A simple conversation today could help prevent a very painful experience later on.