Get protected against shingles

Public Health Scotland (PHS) is encouraging those across Perth and Kinross eligible to get vaccinated against shingles.

PHS’S head of immunisation and vaccination, Dr Sam Ghebrehewet, who highlighted the importance of coming forward for the shingles vaccination to those eligible.

Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox which can become active again later in life.

The vaccine helps build up immunity and reduces the risk of developing shingles by over 70 per cent.

This is especially important for older people as the virus is more likely to become active again among them and can also be more painful.

Local health boards in Scotland have been inviting all those currently eligible by letter to come forward for their free shingles vaccination since January 2024 and include:

People who were aged 65 or 70 on September 1, 2023; 71-79 year olds not previously vaccinated; those aged 50 or over, about to start immunosuppressive therapy or with a severely weakened immune system; those aged 18 or over who have received a stem cell transplant; those aged 18 or over who have CAR-T therapy.

Dr Sam Ghebrehewet said: “Around 400 people aged 70 and over are hospitalised due to shingles related complications every year in Scotland.

“The shingles vaccine is a safe and effective way of reducing the likelihood of getting shingles. I’m pleased to see people coming forward for the shingles vaccine, which will protect them from getting shingles.

“As well as reducing your risk of getting shingles, taking up the offer of the vaccine reduces your risk of experiencing long term pain and being hospitalised.

“PHS continues to work closely with all health boards to ensure as many people as possible receive their shingles vaccine and protect themselves from shingles and its complications, such as post-herpetic neuralgia, where nerve pain lasts for several months after the shingles rash has gone.”