According to a new study released by GSK Ireland, almost half of Irish adults aged between 50 and 60 risk developing shingles because of long-term conditions. These conditions (diabetes, cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease) weaken a person’s immune system and increase the risk of getting shingles. The study, released in coincidence with Shingles Awareness Week 2025, also found that awareness of the disease in the country is low, with 52% of persons with co-morbidities or a compromised immune system having little or no knowledge about shingles. Most of the public also does not understand the link between shingles and chickenpox. Both diseases are caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). Shingles, however, occur when the virus is reactivated after a person has had chickenpox. Around 90% of adults carry VZV, putting them at risk of developing shingles. One in three people with chickenpox will get shingles during their lifetime.
Shingles are generally not life-threatening but can cause serious complications among the elderly and people with a low immune system. The main symptom of the disease is a rash of painful blisters on the chest, abdomen, or face. Following the rash, a person can also experience post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), a long-lasting nerve pain that persists for several weeks, months, or even years. Around 10 to 15% of shingles cases can also result in serious eye complications. Eavan Daly, Country Medical Director at GSK Ireland, said that many people misunderstand shingles and are not aware of the risk factors linked to developing the disease. Those aged over 50 are particularly vulnerable and underestimate the severe impact of the disease due to long-term or age-related conditions. Daly encouraged people to speak with their healthcare providers to learn more about the issue.
