Mayo ICA group spearheading campaign on shingles vaccine policy

Bonniconlon ICA, a group of brilliant volunteers and community activists, have raised concerns over the policy on the shingles vaccine.

Members have requested its inclusion in the national vaccination programme funded by the HSE for the general population, similar to programmes in the UK and Australia.

Shingles is a serious condition with potentially debilitating effects.

It can lead to long-term pain known as postherpetic neuralgia.

HIQA has assessed the vaccine and a decision was made that it would not be cost-effective at that time.

However, preventative healthcare measures that enable older people to live healthy, active and independent lives can ultimately save the State significant long-term health costs and reduce hospital admissions.

The vaccine is only available privately at present for those who can afford it, at considerable cost.

Supporting the group, Senator Mark Duffy said The positive health benefits outweigh all upfront costs the State may incur in funding and supporting the roll-out of this vaccine.

"This is something that could have a very positive health impact on our country if it were supported," he added