Protecting yourself against Shingles and pneumococcal disease 26 April 2024 This World Immunisation Week (April 24-30) people living with diabetes are being urged to protect themselves with current immunisations. Examples of two conditions that are important to protect against are Shingles and pneumococcal disease. Herpes zoster, commonly known as Shingles, is a painful infection that occurs when the chickenpox virus reactivates. Shingles can cause severe pain that can last for months. All Australians over 65 years of age are eligible for a free, two-dose course of Shingrix, a safe and effective way to protect against serious diseases caused by shingles. These can include vision loss, pneumonia, hearing problems, brain inflammation or death. The Shingles vaccine is available under the National Immunisation Program. Diabetes Australia member, Margaret Wheatley, 61, has lived with type 1 diabetes for 50 years and urged anyone who is eligible to prioritise getting the Shingles vaccine. “I developed shingles in June last year. The pain is very hard to cope with,” Margaret said. “I knew it was nerve pain, but it started at the top of my head and affected the left side of my face. “I didn’t know what it was, but it was painful. As soon as I found out it was shingles, I went straight to the eye specialist, but my eyes were fine, thank goodness. Some people aren’t that lucky.” Margaret said she would make sure she got her vaccine as soon as the recommended 12 months has passed after she developed the condition. “I will do my best to avoid getting shingles again, that’s for sure.” A vaccine to protect against Pneumococcus is also recommended for people living with diabetes. Diabetes is considered an at-risk condition for invasive pneumococcal disease. Vaccine recommendations and schedules differ depending on age so people should always check with their health professional. It is recommended that all adults with diabetes receive three lifetime doses of pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine.
Media releases 15 May 2024 Diabetes Australia welcomes cost relief in 2024-25 Federal Budget Diabetes Australia welcomes health measures providing cost of living relief in this year's Federal Budget. DA eagerly awaits the outcomes of the current Senate Inquiry into Diabetes. Continue Reading
News 14 May 2024 New PBS listing for treatment of itch associated with chronic kidney disease A new medication has been added to the PBS for people undergoing dialysis and experiencing chronic kidney disease itch. Continue Reading
Blog 13 May 2024 Calls for action on kidney disease screening Dianne Moidin knows better than most about the courage people show when they live with chronic kidney disease. Dianne runs... Continue Reading