Shingles is a condition that tends to go undetected—until it happens. Brought on by the reawakening of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox, shingles has the potential to cause severe health consequences, particularly among older adults. Knowing its symptoms and risks is the beginning of prevention, and for many Filipinos, that entails considering vaccination.
Knowing the Symptoms
Shingles usually starts with a burning, tingling, or painful feeling on one side of the body. Pain usually occurs before any signs are visible. In a matter of days, a rash develops, turning into blister-like fluid-filled areas. These blisters usually occur in a band-like distribution, mostly around the chest, neck, or face.
Some other symptoms are:
- Pain with touch
- Fever
- Headache
- Fatigue
While the rash usually heals within 2–4 weeks, some people—especially those over 50—experience lingering nerve pain known as postherpetic neuralgia. This pain can last for months or even years and significantly affect quality of life.
Who’s Most at Risk?
Anyone who’s had chickenpox also has the virus in them lying dormant and is susceptible to developing shingles later on in life. That means most adults in the Philippines since chickenpox is prevalent in children here.
The risk also grows with age, especially after age 50. Those with compromised immune systems—like those with diabetes, cancer, or HIV—are also more likely to develop serious cases.
Shingles is not only painful; it can also have complications such as:
- Vision or hearing impairment (if nerves around the eyes or ears are impacted)
- Scarring
- Skin infections
- Chronic nerve pain
The Role of Vaccination
Fortunately, the Philippines zoster vaccine is highly protective. It decreases the risk of getting shingles and reduces its severity if it develops. The majority of physicians prescribe the vaccine for adults 50 years and older, even among those who already had shingles.
Its newer recombinant form is more favored because it is more effective and has longer-lasting immunity. The vaccine can be found in most clinics, hospitals, and pharmacies across the country.
The cost of the shingles vaccine in the Philippines is generally between ₱7,000 and ₱10,000 per dose, and two doses are needed for maximum protection. Although not cheap, most consider it an investment in overall long-term health, particularly when compared to possible treatment costs and lost time.
Preventive Action
More and more Filipinos are taking charge of their health, and shingles vaccination in the Philippines is among those changes. If you are 50 and above or taking care of someone who is, now is the time to speak with a healthcare professional regarding shingles prevention. Early protection may spare you from unwanted pain and complications in the future.