Lanarkshire locals start to receive appointments for shingles vaccine

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Lanarkshire locals aged 78 and 79 have started to receive appointments for their shingles vaccine.This vaccine was previously provided by GP practices.

However, changes to the national GP contract sees this move to the responsibility of NHS Lanarkshire.This change is happening across all Scottish health boards.The Lanarkshire Live app is available to download now.

Get all the news from your area – as well as features, entertainment, sport and the latest on Lanarkshire’s recovery from the coronavirus pandemic – straight to your fingertips, 24/7.The free download features the latest breaking news and exclusive stories, and allows you to customise your page to the sections that matter most to you.Head to the App Store and never miss a beat in Lanarkshire - iOS - Android Tobias Tipper, the health board's vaccination programme general manager, told us : “Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox and it can lie inactive after you recover from chickenpox. “The virus can become active again in later life when you have a weakened immune system due to age, stress or other illnesses.“The shingles vaccine helps reduce the risk of catching shingles and, if you do develop it, the vaccine reduces how serious the symptoms will be.“Getting your vaccine, when invited, is the best way to help protect yourself against shingles.

The vaccine is given as a single dose in the upper arm.”People who are eligible will receive a letter with details of their vaccination appointment.