23/02/2026
Shingles can happen to anyone — and the impact can be serious.
Shingles is a painful viral infection caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus and can lead to long-lasting nerve pain if left untreated.
Shingles Awareness Week (24–28 February) is an important reminder to understand the risks, recognise symptoms early, and take steps to protect your health.
Prevention is key.
The most effective protection against shingles is vaccination. The shingles vaccine is available through the National Immunisation Program at no cost for eligible people, including:
• People aged 65 years and over
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 years and over
• Immunocompromised people aged 18 years and over with certain medical conditions
If you think you may have shingles, early treatment matters.
Our pharmacists can assess symptoms and provide immediate care where appropriate, helping reduce the severity and duration of illness. Whether you’re looking to protect yourself, checking eligibility for vaccination, or need urgent advice, visit us in store or speak with our pharmacy team — we’re here to help protect the health of our community.
Always speak to a pharmacist or healthcare professional to see what’s right for you.
