Who is at risk of developing shingles?
- Shingles can occur regardless of how young, fit or healthy a person feels; however, certain factors, including age and underlying medical conditions, can increase the risk of shingles.
- If you’ve had chickenpox then you’re at risk of developing shingles.
- Over 100,000 Australians are estimated to develop shingles every year.
Does having a medical condition increase my risk of shingles?
Some underlying medical conditions are associated with an increased risk of shingles in adults. These can include:
- asthma
- diabetes
- certain cardiovascular conditions
- chronic kidney disease
- some autoimmune conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis
What is having shingles like?
Shingles often produces a painful, blistering rash for 1-2 weeks that may then take several weeks to settle.
This Shingles Action Week talk to your doctor about your personal shingles risk and how you can help protect yourself.
