Vaccination against shingles

Vulnerable age groups

Sir, – Now that the HSE and Government know how receptive our older citizens are to vaccination following the successful coronovirus vaccination programme, maybe they might consider offering this cohort free vaccination against shingles. Most people will know someone who has suffered from this painful condition which is largely preventable with vaccination.

The Shingrix vaccine is now approved in Ireland and two doses provides 100 per cent protection against shingles in the 50 to 69 age group, diminishing slightly in older age groups. Citizens in Northern Ireland aged over 70 are given this vaccine free of charge.

Maybe the Government could at least subsidise this vaccine in the groups, aged over 50 years, who would benefit from the vaccine’s protection. – Yours, etc,

JOAN BARRY,

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Glasnevin,

Dublin 9.