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Understanding Shingles: What You Need to Know

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. nderstanding-shingles-what-you-need-to-know.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Sunday, January 11th 2026 at 13:29 GMT by Daily Express

Understanding Shingles: A Resurfacing Threat

Shingles, medically known as herpes zoster, isn't a new disease. It's a reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus - the same virus that causes chickenpox. Most people who have had chickenpox develop the virus in a dormant state in their nerve ganglia. Years later, sometimes triggered by stress, weakened immunity, or age, the virus can reactivate, causing shingles. The hallmark symptoms are a painful rash, often blistering, that typically appears on one side of the body. Beyond the intense pain and discomfort, shingles can, in some cases, lead to serious complications. These include postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a chronic nerve pain that can persist long after the rash has healed, as well as vision loss, hearing loss, and even paralysis in rare instances. The pain associated with shingles can be debilitating, significantly impacting daily life and well-being.

Agutter's Personal Testimony and the Power of Awareness

Agutter's willingness to discuss her personal experience serves as a powerful reminder that shingles can affect anyone, regardless of age or overall health. "It was absolutely dreadful," she stated, highlighting the significant impact the illness had on her. Her decision to speak openly aims to demystify the condition and reduce the stigma often associated with viral illnesses. By sharing her story, she hopes to encourage others to proactively protect themselves through vaccination.

"It's very common and it does affect people of all ages, but particularly over 50s. I would strongly advise vaccination," Agutter urged. This sentiment is particularly timely as NHS England has recently launched a public health campaign to boost shingles vaccination rates.

NHS England's Campaign & Vaccine Information

The national campaign underscores the safety and effectiveness of the shingles vaccine. Dr. Steve Russell, Public Health England's head of vaccines and immunisations, emphasized, "Shingles is a really painful condition. The vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect yourself from it."

The current NHS vaccination program offers the shingles vaccine to adults aged 58 and over. This is a routine preventative measure aimed at significantly reducing the risk of developing shingles and its associated complications. Furthermore, individuals with weakened immune systems (those who are immunosuppressed) are also eligible for the vaccine, regardless of their age. This is because these individuals are at higher risk for severe complications from shingles.

Beyond the Rash: Long-Term Consequences and Prevention

While the shingles rash itself is uncomfortable, the long-term risk of PHN is a significant concern. PHN can result in chronic, debilitating pain for months or even years, severely impacting quality of life. Vaccination offers a proactive approach to significantly reduce this risk. It's not just about preventing the initial outbreak; it's about protecting against the potential for persistent, agonizing pain.

Agutter's advocacy highlights a vital public health message: proactive preventative measures, like vaccination, are crucial for maintaining health and well-being, especially as we age. The vaccine isn't a guarantee against shingles, but it significantly lowers the risk and reduces the severity of potential complications. For those eligible, consulting with a healthcare provider about the shingles vaccine is a prudent step towards safeguarding long-term health.