Shingles: It’s Not Just a Rash

New Painaustralia Report Highlights the Devastating Impact of Shingles

21st February 2025

New Painaustralia Report Highlights the Devastating Impact of Shingles

Shingles is a debilitating and painful condition that affects one in three Australians in their lifetime, yet it is often dismissed as a minor rash. In reality, shingles can be life-changing, causing severe nerve pain, long-term health complications, and financial hardship. Despite its significant impact, awareness of the condition remains alarmingly low.

A new Painaustralia report, It’s Not Just a Rash, released today ahead of Shingles Awareness Week (February 24 – March 2), reveals the alarming toll shingles takes on individuals and their families including financial hardship, long-term pain and health complications. The report, based on insights from over 100 Australians affected by shingles, underscores the need for broader access to the shingles vaccine.

Among the report’s key findings:

• 92% of respondents experienced nerve pain, with nearly half suffering ongoing pain lasting more than 12 months.
• Many were unable to work, perform daily activities, or even manage basic self-care due to persistent symptoms.
• 53% of respondents reported their ability to work was affected, leading to lost income and financial strain.
• Many incurred significant out-of-pocket medical costs, with some spending thousands on treatment.

One devastating case was Robert Bakewell, a vibrant member of the Phillip Island community in Victoria, living independently and full of energy – until he got shingles in 2022 at the age of 88.

What began as mild discomfort quickly spiralled into relentless pain, confusion, and loss of mobility. Within months, Robert was unable to care for himself and was moved into care. He passed away nine months later.

“Shingles ravaged his body. He never recovered,” said his daughter, Libby. “We had no idea it could be this severe.”

Painaustralia CEO, Monika Boogs, said the report highlights the immense suffering that can be caused by shingles and the need for better vaccine access.

“The anguish and pain endured by some people with shingles is shocking. Painaustralia welcomed the Federal Government’s 2023 expansion of the National Immunisation Program (NIP) to provide free shingles vaccinations for Australians aged 65 and over. However, as shingles commonly affects people aged 50 and older, a significant gap remains for those aged 50 to 65, who face limited access due to the high cost of the vaccine.”

Ms Boogs also stressed the economic impact of shingles on working Australians.

“Shingles can strike people in their prime working years, causing chronic pain and financial hardship.”

“More than half of our survey respondents said their ability to work was affected, with many forced to take time off or even leave their jobs. Expanding vaccine access will not only prevent individual suffering but also reduce the economic burden of this preventable disease.”

Survey respondents themselves also overwhelmingly called for greater awareness and increased vaccine access.

One participant described the experience: “Shingles pain was like nothing I’ve ever felt before. It has changed my life completely. I wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy.”

For Painaustralia’s report on shingles and its impacts click here.

Media enquiries please contact Monika Boogs on 0419 423 603.