More Australians now eligible for free shingles vaccine as government expands program

More Australians will now be able to access a lifesaving vaccination, saving them hundreds of dollars. See if you are eligible.

More than 200,000 Australians will now be eligible for a free shingles vaccinations, as the government expands their immunisation program.

People who are classified as “moderate to high risk” and aged 18 to 64 are now eligible for the vaccine.

Those eligible include patients with underlying health conditions like HIV or stage five kidney disease, as well as individuals undergoing specific treatments.

The expansion to the government program also means immunocompromised patients under 65 no longer have to pay $560 to receive the vaccine.

Health Minister Mark Butler said since November 2023, more than 1.3 million Aussies have received a free shingles vaccine after the Albanese Government commenced the new shingles program.

People who are classified as “moderate to high risk” and aged 18 to 64 are now eligible for the vaccine.

“Making the shingles vaccine free for more Australians is not just good for their hip pocket, it’s also good for their health,” Mr Butler said.

“Without vaccination, almost 1 in 3 Australians will get shingles in their lifetime.

“Without listing it on the NIP Australians who are immunocompromised due to an underlying health condition would have to pay up to $560 for their vaccine.”

Here is everything you need to know about the vaccination expansion.

WHAT IS SHINGLES?

Shingles is a viral infection that causes a painful blistering rash as a result of the reactivation of the same virus that causes chickenpox.

While most symptoms typically last two to three weeks, shingles can lead to nerve pain that can last for months.

Those who are immunocompromised have a two times higher chance at developing the virus.

In addition to the common rash, symptoms of shingles can also include:

• Fever
• Headaches
• Chills
• Upset stomach

Those who are immunocompromised have a two times higher chance at developing the virus.

WHO WAS ELIGIBLE BEFORE?

Free shingles vaccination was already available for people aged 65 and older, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 and older and high-risk immunocompromised adults with certain medical conditions.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE UNDER THE EXPANSION?

The free shingles vaccination is now available to more people over 18 who are immunocompromised due to an underlying health condition or as a side effect of treatment.

This free vaccine will now cover at least 200,000 Australians living with underlying health conditions and will mean they no longer have to fork out $560 for the jab.

Patients are urged to speak to their GP to check if they are eligible.

HOW DO I GO ABOUT GETTING IT?

The Shingrix vaccine can be administered in a pharmacy or a GP but given the expanded criteria, it requires a discussion between a patient and their GP as to whether or not they qualify and would benefit from this.

WILL THE VACCINE BECOME FREE FOR EVERYONE?

Health Minister Mark Butler said the decision on who gets the vaccine is “ultimately a matter for the medicine experts to determine the clinical and cost effectiveness of that”.

”Many, many vaccines are restricted only to particular cohorts of the population, at least for free access on the National Immunisation Program. The flu vaccine is an example of that to over 65’s, to under-fives, to people with immunocompromised,” he said.

“That doesn’t mean the vaccine’s not useful for other members of the community, but the medicine experts have determined that the clinical and cost effectiveness of making it free, funded by taxpayers, should really be targeted at cohorts that will get the best effect.”

IS THERE ENOUGH OF THE VACCINE OR IS THERE A WAITING LIST?

Health Minister Mark Butler said there are about 500,000 doses in Australia, either in warehouses or in vaccine fridges in pharmacies or GPs.

“I’m very confident that we’re covered right now but given the popularity of this program, we’ve been watching very closely to make sure that we don’t get caught again with a shortage (referring to the huge demand of last November’s program).

Originally published as More Australians now eligible for free shingles vaccine as government expands program