NEW research commissioned by GSK Australia has found that while most Australians aged 50-69 are aware of shingles (herpes zoster)risk factors and potential impact, many underestimate the likelihood of contracting the condition.
The pharmaceutical company behind the Shingrix vaccine is urging Australians aged 50 years and over to learn more about the signs, symptoms and risk factors for shingles, and seek more information from a pharmacist or their GP.
As part of its awareness raising campaign, GSK has engaged Australian comedian and TV host Julia Morris (pictured) to share her experience with the "hidden health baggage" of shingles, which includes a public installation at Circular Quay in Sydney.
"When shingles hit me, I was in the middle of one of the busiest times of my career," Morris said.
"The physical toll was immediate and overwhelming - I had a red rash across my torso, an aching body and the most brutal headache.
"I could barely get through a day without collapsing back into bed, and even simple tasks like having a shower left me exhausted.
"I was completely debilitated for weeks - shingles wasn't just painful, it completely altered how I lived and worked," she said.
While the Australian Immunisation Handbook recommends shingles vaccination for specific groups including people aged 50 years and over, most are unlikely to be eligible for free vaccination under the National Immunisation Program (NIP), and a two-shot course will cost around $560.
People aged 65 years and over, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 years and over, and adults considered at increased risk of herpes zoster can get free shots.
Leading expert Dr Timothy Tan, cardiologist and professor at Western Sydney University, pointed out that most Australians over 40 have had chickenpox and still carry the virus, so the risk of shingles is "very real".
"As we age, so does our immune system, and it becomes less effective at suppressing the virus, increasing the likelihood of it reactivating as shingles," explained Professor Tan.
"That's why it's so important for Australians, especially who are over the age of 50, to speak with your GP or pharmacist to understand your risk," he said. KB
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