Shingles, a condition many are familiar with by name, yet its details often remain unknown. From February 26th to March 3rd, 2024, the second Shingles Awareness Week takes place. This sheds light on this disease and illustrates how a shingles vaccination can fit into preventive care plans.
During this special week, the Consortium of Pain Patients to One Voice, the International Federation on Aging (IFA), the GGD platform, and GSK join forces to raise awareness about shingles. The primary goal is to increase awareness through a campaign and targeted communication.
Shingles manifests in various forms, each with its own story. Statistics show that one in four people will experience it.
In the Netherlands and beyond, attention is given to the symptoms and impact of shingles on daily life. The risk of shingles increases with age due to an aging immune system. The virus causing shingles can suddenly become active, especially in people who have had chickenpox. Although shingles usually resolves on its own, it can be accompanied by intense pain and long-lasting nerve pain, lasting for months to years.
On www.aandachtvoorgordelroos.nl, you will find extensive information and can share your story, giving shingles a face and sharing experiences.
Prevention of Shingles: The importance of vaccination
For individuals aged 50 and older, there is the Shingrix vaccine, designed to prevent shingles and associated nerve pain. This vaccine contains proteins from the surface of the shingles virus and enhances the body’s immune response. Clinical studies show that Shingrix has an effectiveness of 90% in preventing shingles in people over fifty years old. In many countries, it is successfully administered to seniors aged 60 and older.
Vaccination coverage
Shingles vaccination is reimbursed under certain conditions from the basic health insurance. Consult your health insurance provider for coverage options and terms.
Would you like to schedule a shingles vaccination appointment? Please contact us by phone, as this vaccine may not always be readily available: 085 902 03 03.
This blog was published on 8 February 2024.