09/10/2023

The Hon Mark Butler MP

Minister for Health and Aged Care

Member for Hindmarsh

Anne Stanley MP

Government Whip

Member for Werriwa

Shingles Vaccine Now Free For 23,016 People in Werriwa

From 1 November, 23,016 older Australians in Werriwa will have free access to the best protection against shingles through one of the most comprehensive and widely available vaccination programs in the world.

The Albanese Government is investing 560 - for almost 5 million people and 23,016 in Werriwa that will now be free.

Shingles is caused by reactivation of the same virus that causes chickenpox and presents as a painful blistering rash on one side of the face or body that lasts 10-15 days.

1 in 5 people with shingles will develop severe nerve pain known as post-herpetic neuralgia that can last months or even years. In some cases, it may be permanent.

The risk of developing shingles increases with age and people aged 65 years and over are at highest risk of complications like post-herpetic neuralgia.

Shingrix® will replace Zostavax® on the NIP from 1 November 2023, following advice from the independent medicines experts at the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) and the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI).

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Health and Aged Care, the Hon Mark Butler:

"Without vaccination, almost one in three Australians will get shingles in their lifetime.

"Thanks to the Albanese Government older Australians will now have free access to the best protection against shingles through one of the most comprehensive and widely available vaccination programs in the world."

"This investment will ensure nearly five million Australians can get free protection from shingles and the very painful nerve damage that it causes.

"Shingles can be severe, so it's really important that eligible people talk to their GP or pharmacist about getting the shingles vaccine."

Quotes attributable to the Member for Werriwa, Ms Anne Stanley MP:

"The Albanese Government is providing older Australians in Werriwa with the best protection against shingles, completely free."

"23,016 in Werriwa are going to get free access to the best shingles protection because of this investment by the Albanese Government."

"Free access to the latest shingles vaccine means people in Werriwa now have protection and peace of mind."

Media Contact:

Anne Stanley MP (Alaa Ahmad): (02) 8783 0977