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Writer's pictureAbraham The Pharmacist

Shingles Vaccine NHS | How To Prevent Shingles | Shingles Virus Information Causes & Symptoms (2018)

Updated: Apr 14


NHS Shingles Vaccine Eligibility | Should I Get Shingles Vaccine | How To Stop Shingles | Shingles Vaccine Information | Shingles Vaccine Side Effects | What Causes Shingles Virus | Public Health England Shingles



Hey guys! I've been really excited to show you this weeks video! I've teamed up with Public Health England on this one to help explain to everyone the importance of the NHS shingles vaccine and help increase its uptake amongst the elderly.


Please help spread the word to friends and family who are between 70-80 years old so they can hopefully get vaccinated and protected from shingles. It's the best way to avoid the disease and long term complications that can develop from it.


We have also timed the video to be released on European Immunisation Week (EIW) which promotes the core message that immunisation is vital to prevent diseases and protect life. Their slogan for the campaign– Prevent. Protect. Immunise. -Carries this message across the Region. EIW 2018 will be celebrated on 23–29 April 2018.



WHAT IS SHINGLES?

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a painful skin rash caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus (varicella-zoster virus) in people who have previously had chickenpox.


It begins with a burning sensation in the skin, followed by a rash of very painful fluid-filled blisters that can then burst and turn into sores before healing. Often an area on just one side of the body is affected, usually the chest but sometimes the head, face and eye.



SYMPTOMS OF SHINGLES:

The pain is a localised band of pain. It can be anywhere on your body, depending on which nerve is affected. The pain can range from mild to severe. You may have a constant dull, burning, or gnawing pain. In addition, or instead, you may have sharp and stabbing pains that come and go. The affected area of skin is usually tender.


For more information please visit,



WHO CAN HAVE THE FREE NHS SHINGLES VACCINE:

You are eligible for the shingles vaccine if you are aged 70 or 78 years old.


In addition, anyone who was eligible for immunisation in the previous three years of the programme but missed out on their shingles vaccination remains eligible until their 80th birthday. This includes:


• People in their 70s who were born after 1 September 1942

• People aged 79 years


The shingles vaccine is not available on the NHS if you are aged 80 or over. You can have the shingles vaccination at any time of year.


Link to chart on video,



HOW DO I GET THE SHINGLES VACCINE:

Once you become eligible for shingles vaccination your doctor will take the opportunity to vaccinate you when you attend the surgery for general reasons or for your annual flu vaccination. Contact your GP surgery if you have any further questions.



HOW LONG WILL THE VACCINE PROTECT ME & IS IT SAFE:

It's difficult to be precise, but research suggests the shingles vaccine will protect you for at least five years, probably longer.


There is lots of evidence showing that the shingles vaccine is very safe. It's already been used in several countries, including the US and Canada, and no safety concerns have been raised. The vaccine also has few side effects see link for more information: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/shingles-vaccine-side-effects/



WHO IS MOST AT RISK OF SHINGLES:

People tend to get shingles more often as they get older, especially over the age of 70. And the older you are, the worse it can be. The shingles rash can be extremely painful, such that sufferers can't even bear the feeling of their clothes touching the affected skin.


The pain of shingles can also linger long after the rash has disappeared, even for many years. This lingering pain is called postherpetic neuralgia (PHN).




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About Me:

Prescribing Media Pharmacist | Bringing Science Through New Film Every Monday | Extreme Optimist




Disclaimer:

This video is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. Abraham The Pharmacist has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but make no warranty as to its accuracy. Always consult a doctor or other healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions.

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