Free Shingles Vaccine Now Available for Immunocompromised Australians
Great news for many Australians: the government has announced that immunocompromised individuals will now have free access to the shingles vaccine. This expansion of the immunization program is a significant step forward, ensuring that those at higher risk due to health conditions or treatment side effects can protect themselves against this painful illness.
Previously, the shingles vaccine was available only to a select group, including those over 65 and Indigenous Australians over 50. Now, anyone over the age of 18 who is immunocompromised will be eligible. This change is expected to benefit over 200,000 individuals who are particularly vulnerable to shingles, a reactivation of the virus that causes chickenpox. Shingles can lead to a painful rash and, in some cases, chronic nerve pain that persists long after the rash has healed.
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Health Minister Mark Butler emphasized the importance of this initiative during a recent appearance on ABC's Insiders program. He noted that immunocompromised people are twice as likely to contract shingles compared to the general population. The federal government is investing more than $57 million in this program, which is already one of the most comprehensive shingles vaccination initiatives globally.
Without vaccination, almost one in three Australians will experience shingles in their lifetime, making it a pressing public health concern. Since the immunization program began in November 2023, over 1.3 million doses have already been administered. Prior to this expansion, individuals who needed the vaccine but weren’t eligible for the program could have faced costs of up to $560.
Leanne Raven, CEO of Crohn's Colitis Australia, welcomed the expansion, highlighting the importance of supporting Australians living with autoimmune diseases. For those with weakened immune systems, conditions like shingles can have a debilitating impact on daily life. The availability of a free vaccine will not only help prevent shingles but also alleviate some of the burdens associated with managing chronic health conditions.
This new initiative is a vital step in protecting some of our most vulnerable community members. It highlights the government's commitment to public health and ensuring that everyone has access to the necessary medical support. If you or someone you know fits the criteria for the free shingles vaccine, now is the time to take action and protect against this serious illness. Together, we can improve health outcomes and enhance the quality of life for all Australians.
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