PRESS RELEASE: A vaccine for the debilitating shingles virus is now available free of charge for people aged 70 to 79 years. The Zostavax vaccine, which normally costs around $250, is provided under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) from 1 November 2016 to older people who are often most at risk of contracting the painful rash associated with shingles, or herpes zoster virus.

National Seniors Australia chief executive officer Dagmar Parsons said the vast majority of older people were aware of the shingles virus but had not received the recommended vaccination because of a lack of financial support. Paying around $250 for a vaccination has put it out of reach for many older people on limited, fixed incomes, Ms Parsons said…

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