The new shingles vaccination is recommended for all adults aged 60 and over. It can be given at the same time as your flu shot.
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Shingles (herpes zoster) is a painful, blistering skin rash caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox, the varicella-zoster virus. The infection is increasingly common from about the age of 50. One in 10 cases gets severe long-term nerve pain, called post-herpetic neuralgia.
Vaccination prevents about half the cases of shingles and two-thirds of neuralgia cases. The infection is much less severe in those who still contract the infection after vaccination.
The shingles vaccine is safe and well tolerated.
A single injection only is required and is available on a private script from your GP.
National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance fact sheet
The Australian Immunisation Handbook, 9th edition
Disclaimer:
Please note this information was correct at time of printing.
For up to date information, speak to your doctor.
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