- Cost should not be a barrier to protecting people most vulnerable to shingles
IPU, Thursday 10 September: The Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU) has called for the introduction of a national shingles vaccination programme for adults aged 65 years and older and immunocompromised individuals.
The IPU said the introduction of a national programme for these groups would be consistent with recommendations from the National Immunisation Advisory Committee (NIAC) and international best practice. It would also help ensure that those most at risk of serious illness and long-lasting complications from shingles can access vaccination regardless of their ability to pay.
Shingles (herpes zoster) can have a significant impact on patients, particularly older and more vulnerable people. Complications can include post-herpetic neuralgia, neurological complications and prolonged pain, which can significantly affect quality of life and, in some cases, result in a loss of independence.
Rebecca Barry the Chair of the IPU’s Community Pharmacy Committee said, “Community pharmacists regularly see the impact shingles can have on patients. For some people, it is not simply a short-term illness. The pain and other complications can continue for prolonged periods and have a very significant impact on their quality of life and independence.
“Older people and those who are immunocompromised can be particularly vulnerable to shingles and its complications. Vaccination is a safe and effective way of reducing the risk and protecting those who are most vulnerable.”
Shingles vaccination is currently available privately, including through community pharmacies, but patients must meet the cost themselves. The IPU said this can create an unnecessary barrier to vaccination and result in unequal access for those who may be most at risk.
This places Ireland out of line with many other countries. Including the UK which commenced a vaccine programme over a decade ago, as well as many EU neighbours including Germany, Spain, Greece and France.
Ms Barry added, “People are already coming into pharmacies seeking shingles vaccination because they want to protect themselves. However, the cost can be significant and should not determine whether someone who is at increased risk can access vaccination.
“A national programme would help ensure that access is based on clinical need rather than ability to pay. It would protect those most vulnerable to shingles, help people remain healthy and independent and potentially reduce demands on other parts of the health service.”
Community pharmacists have extensive experience in delivering vaccination services and are ideally placed to support the delivery of a national shingles vaccination programme safely and effectively.
The IPU is calling for the introduction of a national programme providing shingles vaccination to adults aged 65 years and older and immunocompromised individuals at the earliest opportunity.
ENDS
