Shingles: The Unwelcome Return of the Chickenpox Virus

Did you know that if you’ve had chickenpox, the virus can reactivate later in life as shingles? It’s true—and it can be a painful experience. Shingles typically appears as a blistering rash that wraps around one side of the body, often the torso, accompanied by fever, headache, and fatigue. As if that weren’t enough, shingles can also lead to postherpetic neuralgia—persistent nerve pain that lingers long after the rash disappears, sometimes lasting for months or even years.

Why Does Shingles Occur?

As we age, our immune system naturally weakens, making us more susceptible to shingles. The varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox, stays dormant in the body and can reactivate when immunity declines.

The Good News: There’s a Vaccine!

The best way to protect yourself from shingles and its complications is through vaccination. In Australia:

✔ If you're 65 or older, you can receive the shingles vaccine for free under the National Immunisation Program.
✔ If you're 50 or older, it’s worth speaking to your doctor to see if the vaccine is right for you. While those under 65 may need to cover the cost, many consider it a valuable investment in their long-term health.

Take Action and Stay Protected

If you’re over 50, why not have a chat with your doctor about the shingles vaccine? A simple step today could save you from significant pain and discomfort in the future—allowing you to focus on enjoying life, worry-free.