Are you looking to maintain your health as you age? Well... getting the shingles and pneumococcal vaccine is a jab in the right direction.
The shingles and pneumococcal vaccines are often recommended together because of their ability to protect against different but equally serious illnesses. Especially those that are more common in older adults.
Shingles and pneumonia negatively affect your immune system by weakening it. Therefore, having a private vaccination for both infections can boost your immune defence whilst preventing diseases and serious complications.
Shingles is commonly known by another name - herpes zoster. Herpes zoster is a painful rash which results in the reactivation of the same virus that causes chickenpox.
The difference between shingles and chickenpox is that shingles only occurs in individuals who have previously had chickenpox - hence why this usually affects adults.
Therefore, it is recommended for adults aged 50 years and above to have the shingles vaccine so the chances of developing this infection and experiencing its common complications, are significantly reduced.
At Allied Pharmacy our highly trained, experienced pharmacists administer the shingles vaccine in a clean and comfortable environment so you can stay protected and reassured.
Pneumonia is an infection in the lungs that can cause major discomfort and difficulty to the nose and throat. This infection can be life-threatening when infected in older adults who live with chronic health conditions and weakened immune systems. Therefore, having the pneumococcal vaccine can prevent this from happening.
The pneumococcal vaccine is recommended to adults who are aged 65 and older, however it is important to check our pneumococcal vaccine page for further details about the eligibility criteria.
Getting vaccinated can lower the chances of serious illness, hospitalisation and long-term health complications from pneumococcal disease. Some of these include permanent hearing loss, brain damage, lung scarring and severe respiratory issues.
In addition, this disease can also lead to sepsis, a life-threatening condition requiring intense and immediate medical attention.
Private vaccinations at our pharmacy are offered so we can provide you with quicker, convenient access to essential immunisations. Rather than waiting for a referral or the right season, you can call up or pop by your local Allied Pharmacy offering these vaccines and receive the protection you need.
Many people may choose private vaccinations to reduce waiting times and the risk of contracting these infections before their scheduled appointments. Also, some individuals may prefer the personalised approach and access to care they may not receive immediately through other providers.
Offering both the shingles and pneumococcal vaccines as a private service is important due to them being common diseases. Shingles affects around one in three people during their lifetime whereas pneumococcal disease remains a leading cause of serious illness and hospitalisation.
Therefore, having these private vaccinations can limit the demand placed on our nearby hospitals and keep people healthier for longer!
It is not essential to book an appointment to receive the shingles and pneumococcal vaccine, however phoning ahead can ensure you aren’t disappointed! Walk ins are welcome, so you can stay protected at your convenience.
For more information, including frequently asked questions about the shingles and pneumococcal vaccines, finding the nearest pharmacy offering these services, and additional details, visit our Shingles Vaccine and Pneumococcal Vaccine service pages.