From November 1, 2023, eligible Australians aged over 65 are able to receive free protection against shingles.
This initiative is part of an $800 million investment in immunization, designed to safeguard the health of our senior citizens. The previously funded Zostavax will no longer be available after 31 October 2023.
What is Shingles?
- Shingles is a viral infection caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus and typically presents as a painful, blistering rash on one side of the face or body that lasts 10-15 days
- One in five people who gets shingles may develop severe and long lasting chronic nerve pain known as post-herpetic neuralgia
- The risk of shingles and severity of the rash and neuralgia increases with age, making Australians aged 65
Who is eligible?
- Adults aged 65 years and over (>50 if Indigenous), including those who have self-funded the first dose of Shingrix
- Those aged 18 years and older, who have previously been unable to have Zostavax due to a weakened immune system
Please note that patients who have previously received Zostavax free under the NIP cannot receive free Shingrix until at least 5 years after the Zostavax dose.
To book an appointment or find out more, please contact our friendly team 03 9584 9504.