Did you know that the chickenpox virus can come back to haunt you later in life as shingles? It’s true, and it can be quite nasty. Shingles usually shows up as a painful rash that wraps around one side of your body, often the torso, and it can throw in a fever, headache, and fatigue just to make things even less pleasant. If that wasn’t enough, shingles can lead to something called postherpetic neuralgia, where the pain lingers long after the rash has gone, sometimes for months or even years!
As we get older, our immune system isn’t as robust as it used to be, which increases our risk of getting shingles. The good news? There’s a vaccination available. It’s your best shot at keeping shingles at bay and avoiding the long-term pain it can bring.
In Australia, if you’re over 65 years of age, you can get the shingles vaccine for free under the National Immunisation Program. If you’re 50 or older, it’s a good idea to chat with your doctor about whether it’s right for you. While there might be a cost if you’re under 65 years of age, many find it a worthwhile investment in their health.
So, if you’re over 50, why not ask your doctor about the shingles vaccine? It’s a simple step that can help you avoid a lot of pain and trouble, letting you focus on enjoying life.