Shingles Vaccination

Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox (varicella-zoster).

After your chickenpox blisters heal, the virus that caused them remains in your body and is dormant. The virus may be there for many years and not cause a problem. Sometimes however the virus may become active again. So, anyone who has had chickenpox is at risk of developing shingles. In fact approximately 1 in 3 people will experience shingles in their lifetime.

For some people shingles is more than just a painful blistering rash. 1 in 4 people will develop complications, the most common being long-term nerve pain that can last for months, even years, after the rash has healed.

If you are 50 years of age or older talk to one of our pharmacists, who are now able to provide a vaccine that helps prevent shingles*.

What are the symptoms of Shingles?
Shingles typically begins with pain and itching. Within 2 to 3 days red patches start to form on the skin in the painful area, and the pain may worsen or become a deep aching or burning.

If you are under 50 years of age, shingles pain is often not too severe, but if you are older it can be extremely painful. The rash then develops into a 'belt' of small blisters, usually on only one side. The blisters tend to join and crust over in about 7 to 10 days.

Untreated, the rash usually lasts two to five weeks, and it may leave some scarring. You remain infectious until all of the rash has scabbed over. You may also experience headaches and fever.

What are the treatment options?
If you notice any of the symptoms above, see your doctor. They can prescribe an antiviral medication if appropriate along with the right type of pain relief.

How can I protect myself from Shingles?
Protect yourself with a shingles vaccination. A vaccine to prevent shingles is now available to those aged 50 and older at Vogeltown Pharmacy.

You are eligible to get a free shingles vaccination for 12 months once you turn 65, talk to your pharmacist today.

The vaccine is about 90% effective in preventing shingles, and two-thirds of the patients are less likely to get pain after shingles (post-herpetic neuralgia).

What can you expect in your Shingrix Vaccination appointment?