A timely reminder about shingles
Medically known as herpes zoster, shingles is a significant health concern for older Australians and free vaccination is available for many seniors.
Have a heart-to-heart experience
Heart Valve Disease Awareness Week, hosted by Hearts4Heart, is also being held from 26 February 26 to 3 March.
A vital initiative to raise awareness about heart valve disease, it features a range of activities including educational webinars, expert discussions, and patient stories, all designed to inform and empower participants.
By providing insights into the diagnosis, treatment, and management of heart valve conditions, the initiative aims to improve early detection and enhance quality of life for affected people.
Details are here.
Shingles Awareness Week, held his year from 26 February to 3 March, serves as a crucial reminder to understand the risks associated with the disease and the importance of proactive healthcare measures.
Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox. After an individual recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the nervous system and can reactivate later in life, leading to shingles.
This condition is characterised by a painful, blistering rash that typically appears on one side of the body.
About one in three people will develop shingles in their lifetime, with the risk increasing significantly after the age of 50.
For Australians 65 and over, the likelihood of complications from shingles is notably higher. These complications can include post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), a condition where severe nerve pain persists even after the rash has healed, as well as potential issues including pneumonia, hearing problems, blindness, or swelling of the brain.
Shingles Awareness Week aims to dispel misconceptions and encourage older Australians to take proactive steps in protecting their health.
A common myth is that only those in poor health are at risk. Even people who feel fit and healthy can develop shingles as the virus lies dormant in nearly all adults over 50, regardless of their lifestyle.
Vaccination is a key strategy in reducing the incidence and severity of shingles.
Free shingles vaccination under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) is available for eligible people at moderate to high risk of severe illness and complications from shingles.
A two-dose course of Shingrix is available for free for:
People aged 65 years and over
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 years and over
People 18 years and over who are considered at increased risk of herpes zoster due to an underlying condition and/or immunomodulatory/ immunosuppressive treatments.
During Shingles Awareness Week, older Australians are encouraged to consult with their healthcare providers about shingles and the benefits of vaccination.
Understanding personal risk factors and engaging in informed discussions with medical professionals can lead to better health outcomes.
Shingles poses a significant health risk to older Australians, but awareness and proactive measures, such as vaccination, can substantially mitigate this risk.
Related reading: Better Health, Know Shingles
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional about any health concerns or before making any changes to your medication, diet, or exercise routine.
