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.