In-pharmacy Shingles vaccinations

*Ask your local Pharmacy 777 Pharmacist regarding Shingles vaccinations that may be available in your state.
 

What is Shingles?  

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the nerve tissues near the spinal cord and brain. In some cases, usually later in life or when the immune system weakens, the virus can reactivate and travel along the nerve pathways to the skin, causing shingles.  
 

What are the symptoms of a Shingles infection?  

Shingles typically starts with a tingling or burning sensation, followed by a painful rash on one side of the body or face. The rash forms small, fluid-filled blisters that eventually crust over and heal within a couple of weeks. It usually affects a specific dermatome, which is an area of the skin that is supplied by a single sensory nerve. The most common location for the shingles rash is on the torso or waistline, but it can appear anywhere on the body and last for about 10 or 15 days. 

In addition to the rash, individuals with shingles may also experience symptoms like fever, headache, fatigue, and sensitivity to light. The pain associated with shingles can be quite intense and may last for weeks, months, or even years after the rash has healed. This persistent pain is known as postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) and can have a significant impact on the affected person's quality of life. 
 

Does Shingles spread to a patient who has not had the chickenpox disease? 

Yes, shingles can be contagious, especially if an individual who has never had the chickenpox disease or vaccination comes into contact with the rash or fluid from the blisters. However, they will develop chickenpox, not shingles.  


What are the risks and complications of shingles? 

The risks and complications of shingles can vary depending on the individual and the severity of the infection. Some potential risks and complications include but is not limited to: 

1. Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN): This is the most common complication of shingles, where there is persistent nerve pain that can last for longer than three months or even years after the shingles rash has healed. The risk of post-herpetic neuralgia increases with advancing age. It is reduced by prior vaccination, but not by anti-viral tablets. Pain-relieving medication or tablets specific for nerve pain may be needed to help manage symptoms.
2. Eye complications: Medical attention should be sought immediately for shingles affecting the upper half of the face. This can lead to various eye problems, including conjunctivitis, corneal ulcers, and even vision loss if left untreated or if the infection spreads to the deeper layers of the eye.
3. Skin infections: In some cases, the shingles rash can become infected with bacteria, leading to additional complications such as cellulitis or impetigo. Avoid pricking or scratching the blisters, and make sure that the affected skin site is kept clean to avoid secondary bacterial infection.
4. Neurological complications: Shingles can affect the nerves, potentially leading to neurological complications such as facial paralysis (if the infection occurs near the facial nerve), hearing or balance problems (if the infection affects the inner ear), or inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) or spinal cord (myelitis) in rare cases. 

It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have shingles or experience any complications. Early treatment of shingles with anti-viral medications within 72 hours of the rash appearing can help reduce the severity and duration of symptoms and decrease the risk of potential complications. 
 

What can I do to prevent getting shingles? 

There are currently two shingles vaccines available: Zostavax® and Shingrix®. Vaccines can reduce the risk of developing the infection or, if it does occur, decrease the severity and duration of symptoms. Check with your pharmacy if your state is eligible to vaccinate with either brand of the shingles vaccine.  

Proper hygiene practices, such as avoiding direct contact with the fluid in the blisters of an infected individual or sheets and clothes soiled with discharge from the spot, can help prevent the transmission of the virus. In addition to direct contact, shingles can also be spread via the air through coughing and sneezing if the blisters are present in the mouth of the infected person. 

Who can receive a shingles vaccine from the pharmacy?  

Shingles vaccines are recommended for the following individuals:  

• Healthy individuals aged ≥50 years, including people who have had a previous episode of herpes zoster. 
• Individuals aged ≥18 years who have weakened immune system or will be diagnosed with the selected severe immunocompromising conditions.
  • Haematopoietic stem cell transplant
  • Solid organ transplant
  • Haematological malignancy
  • Advanced or untreated HIV 

The National Immunisation Program (NIP) is funding a 2-dose course of Shingrix® for the following eligible people: 

• All adults aged 65 years and over   
• All Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 years and over
• Immunocompromised people aged 18 years and over with the above medical conditions 

Check with your local Pharmacy 777 Pharmacist if you are eligible to receive a Shingrix® vaccine if you previously received the Zostavax® vaccine through the NIP.  

Contact your local Pharmacy 777 to discuss if you meet the NIP or your individual state eligibility. 

For Shingles vaccinations: