At HMI Pharmacy, we understand how precious the festive season is—a time for family gatherings, shared meals, and creating memories with loved ones. However, as we prepare for the celebrations, it’s important to prioritise your health, particularly if you’re over 50. One key step you can take to protect yourself and your family is getting winter vaccines, like the flu and shingles vaccine, before the festivities begin.

Shingles is a painful and often debilitating condition that can disrupt your life for weeks, if not longer. With the increased risk of spreading illnesses during family gatherings, ensuring you’re protected from shingles not only safeguards your own wellbeing but also helps you remain healthy and present for your loved ones this holiday season.

What Is Shingles and Why Does It Matter?

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the same virus responsible for chickenpox—the varicella-zoster virus. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the body and can reactivate years later as shingles.

Symptoms of Shingles:

  • – Painful rash, often appearing on one side of the body or face.
  • – Burning, itching, or tingling sensations before the rash appears.
  • – Blisters that scab over after a week or two.
  • – Fatigue, fever, or general malaise.

Shingles can be particularly severe in older adults, with complications such as postherpetic neuralgia (PHN)—persistent nerve pain lasting months or even years after the rash clears. This condition can severely impact quality of life, making prevention through vaccination crucial.

Get the shingles vaccine this winter.

Why Is the Shingles Vaccine Important?

The shingles vaccine is an effective way to reduce your risk of developing shingles and its complications. Here’s why it’s important, especially ahead of the festive season:

1. Protect Yourself from Pain and Disruption

Shingles is not only painful but can also interfere with your ability to enjoy time with your family. The condition can last for weeks, and the lingering nerve pain may continue for much longer. By getting vaccinated, you significantly lower your chances of experiencing shingles and its aftermath.

2. Protect Your Loved Ones

While shingles itself is not contagious, the virus can cause chickenpox in individuals who haven’t been vaccinated or previously infected. This is particularly concerning for vulnerable groups, such as pregnant women, young children, or those with weakened immune systems. Getting vaccinated helps you avoid spreading the virus to these at-risk individuals during family gatherings.

3. Stay Healthy for the Holidays

The festive season is often busy and demanding. Shingles can lead to fatigue and discomfort, making it difficult to participate in celebrations or manage holiday responsibilities. Protecting yourself ensures you’re ready to enjoy the season to its fullest.

When Should You Get the Shingles Vaccine?

The shingles vaccine is recommended for adults aged 50 and older, as the risk of developing shingles increases with age. Even if you’ve had shingles in the past, vaccination is still beneficial to prevent future episodes.

To ensure you’re protected ahead of the festive season, it’s best to schedule your vaccination as soon as possible. The vaccine typically involves one or two doses (depending on the type of vaccine), and protection begins shortly after administration.

What to Expect When Getting the Shingles Vaccine

At HMI Pharmacy, we make the vaccination process simple and stress-free. When you visit us for your shingles vaccine, here’s what you can expect:

Consultation: Our healthcare professionals will review your medical history to ensure the vaccine is suitable for you.

Vaccination: The vaccine is administered as a quick injection in the upper arm.

Aftercare Advice: We’ll provide guidance on managing any mild side effects, such as redness or soreness at the injection site.

Most people tolerate the shingles vaccine well, and the benefits far outweigh the minor discomfort of the injection.

The Added Peace of Mind During Family Gatherings

Family gatherings during the festive season often involve close contact, shared meals, and lots of hugs. While these moments are cherished, they also provide an opportunity for illnesses to spread. By getting your shingles vaccine, you can:

    • – Reduce your risk of an unexpected illness disrupting your plans.
    • – Avoid passing the varicella-zoster virus to unvaccinated family members.
    • – Set an example for your loved ones to prioritise their health.

This small step can make a big difference in ensuring a happy and healthy holiday season for everyone.

Get the Shingles vaccine near me

How to Get Your Shingles Vaccine at HMI Pharmacy

At HMI Pharmacy, we offer shingles vaccinations to help protect you against this painful condition. Booking your appointment is simple:

Contact us directly or book online to schedule a time that works for you. Our friendly staff will ensure your visit is quick, comfortable, and convenient.

We’re here to answer any questions you may have about the vaccine or its benefits.

Protecting Yourself  and Your Loved Ones This Festive Season

Getting the shingles vaccine ahead of family gatherings is an essential step in prioritising your health and ensuring you can enjoy the festive season without disruption. Shingles is a preventable condition, and vaccination is the best way to safeguard yourself and those around you from its impact.

At HMI Pharmacy, we’re committed to helping you stay healthy and prepared for the holidays. Don’t let shingles spoil your celebrations—schedule your vaccine today and give yourself the gift of peace of mind this festive season.

This blog was written on behalf of HMI Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.