Kiwis get rare opportunity to help protect against shingles

New Zealanders will soon have access to a limited supply of a vaccine to help protect against shingles, despite a global shortage of the vaccine.

Shingles is a painful, unsightly viral infection that affects up to 1 in 3 people during their lives. It is difficult to treat, and in severe cases can cause a pain syndrome that may persist for months or even years.

New Zealand has, however, been fortunate to receive a limited quantity of the shingles vaccine, ZOSTAVAXR. The supplier, MSD, points out that once this supply is used up it may be up to two years before another shipment arrives in the country.

Anyone who has ever had chickenpox is at risk of contracting shingles, and risk and severity of this viral disease increases with age.

"Most GPs will have experienced the challenge of trying to help a patient cope with this debilitating condition. It is difficult to treat the pain effectively and coping with shingles can severely inhibit a patient's normal lifestyle and activities," comments Maureen Dawson, manager, Vaccines, MSD (Merck, Sharp and Dohme New Zealand Ltd). People aged 50+ are advised to contact their GPs to enquire about this vaccine - ZOSTAVAX is a prescription medicine, which will cost the patient around $200 per dose. Only one dose is needed.

Like all medicines there are risks and benefits of this vaccination and not everyone who is vaccinated will be protected against shingles. However, if a vaccinated person does contract shingles, the vaccine can help prevent post herpetic neuralgia (PHN), the long-lasting nerve pain that can follow shingles. ZOSTAVAX can also reduce the intensity and length of time pain from shingles will last. More information can be found at www.shingles.co.nz .

Vaccine supply is expected to arrive in late March, however advance orders are being accepted now, so people over 50 who would like to avoid the pain of shingles should talk to their doctors soon to discuss if this vaccine is appropriate for them.

* ZOSTAVAXR Zoster Vaccine Live (Oka/Merck)