Demand ⁣for Herpes Zoster ⁢Vaccine soars in ⁤Portugal

As awareness‍ of herpes ⁤zoster ​prevention grows, Portugal⁢ is witnessing ⁤a surge ⁤in ​demand for the recombinant ⁢ShingRix⁤ vaccine. Introduced in Portugal ​in 2022, ‍the vaccine has ‍seen a dramatic increase in ⁤prescriptions and sales.

Initial sales ⁢figures ​in⁣ 2022 were modest,⁤ with 1650 units sold. Though, this figure jumped to 6512 in⁤ 2023, and by 2024, sales had more than doubled, reaching 14,114 ⁤units. This significant ‍increase underscores a growing​ recognition of the vaccine’s importance in preventing this debilitating condition.

The Directorate-General for Health (DGS) is currently reevaluating recommendations from the ‌Vaccination Technical Commission (CTV). In September 2024, the CTV ⁤delivered an ​opinion advocating for preventive zoster vaccination in adults and high-risk groups, alongside option implementation​ strategies.⁣ This review signifies‌ a⁣ proactive approach⁤ towards ⁢optimizing ​vaccination programs and ensuring widespread access to this crucial protection against herpes zoster.

Understanding​ Herpes Zoster and the Need for⁢ Vaccination

Herpes zoster,commonly known as ‍shingles,is a painful rash caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus,the⁢ same virus ⁤that⁢ causes chickenpox. While anyone who has had chickenpox is⁢ susceptible ⁢to shingles,‍ the risk ⁢increases with⁣ age and weakened immunity.

shingles can cause severe pain, fatigue, and discomfort, and in⁣ some cases, can lead to complications such as postherpetic neuralgia, a⁢ chronic pain condition. Vaccination offers a powerful⁢ preventative‌ measure against this perhaps debilitating disease.

Taking Charge of Health: The Importance of Vaccination

Conversations about​ preventative health⁤ are increasingly vital,‍ and ‌vaccination plays a vital role in protecting individuals and communities⁣ from various diseases.

“Determining the most suitable strategies for vaccination implementation is essential to ensure widespread protection and optimize public health ‌outcomes,”

highlights‌ Dr. [Name],a leading infectious disease specialist.

staying informed about recommended vaccinations ‍and discussing them with healthcare providers is essential for making informed decisions about your health. By prioritizing preventative care, individuals can ‌take a proactive approach to safeguarding‍ their well-being.

Given teh rise in ShingRix vaccine demand in Portugal, how do you think awareness campaigns and public health initiatives can further encourage ​vaccination against shingles?

Demand for Herpes Zoster Vaccine Soars in Portugal

Understanding Herpes Zoster and the need for‍ Vaccination

Archyde News: Dr. [Name], thank you for joining us today. Could you explain in simpler terms what herpes zoster is and why vaccination ‍is​ so crucial?

Dr. [Name]: Certainly.Herpes zoster, more commonly known as shingles, is a ⁣painful​ rash caused by a reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus. This is the same virus that gives us chickenpox when we’re younger. Once you’ve had chickenpox,⁤ the virus​ lies dormant in yoru body. as we age or our⁢ immune systems weaken, this virus can reactivate, leading to shingles.

Shingles can cause severe‌ pain, fatigue, and discomfort, and sometimes it can lead to complications ​like postherpetic neuralgia, which is a ‍chronic pain⁣ condition.Vaccination is incredibly⁤ significant because it‌ considerably reduces the‍ risk of developing shingles and it’s ⁢potentially debilitating‍ complications.

Archyde News:⁢ We’ve seen a dramatic increase in ‌the demand for the ShingRix vaccine in Portugal. What factors contribute to this growing awareness and acceptance⁤ of vaccination‍ against herpes zoster?

Dr. [Name]: It’s ‍fantastic to see!⁣ I think several factors are at play. Firstly, increased public awareness campaigns are educating peopel about​ the risks of shingles and the effectiveness of the vaccine. Secondly, as our ‍population ages, more people are becoming eligible‌ for the vaccine and are⁣ recognizing ‌its importance. the ⁢success of the vaccine in preventing shingles ‌and its complications is becoming more widely known, which builds trust and encourages more ‌people⁤ to get vaccinated.

Archyde News: What is your stance on the Directorate-General⁢ for Health​ (DGS) ⁣reevaluating recommendations from‌ the Vaccination Technical Commission (CTV)? Do you⁣ think⁤ broader ‍implementation​ of the ShingRix vaccine is warranted?

Dr. [Name]: Absolutely. I believe that re-evaluating and potentially broadening the recommendations for the ShingRix vaccine is a positive step. Expanding access to ⁣this vital preventative measure would undoubtedly contribute​ to reducing​ the burden⁣ of shingles in Portugal. It’s crucial to ​ensure ⁢that everyone who can benefit from the vaccine has the chance ‍to receive‍ it.

Archyde News: What advice⁤ would you give to individuals who are considering getting the ShingRix vaccine?

Dr. [Name]: I‍ highly encourage anyone who is eligible to discuss the ShingRix vaccine with their healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based ‌on ‍your individual medical history and circumstances. Remember, getting vaccinated is a proactive way to protect yourself from ‍a potentially ⁣debilitating⁣ disease. Don’t hesitate to take this important ‍step towards safeguarding ​your health.

Archyde News: Thank you for your ⁤time, Dr. [Name]. Your insights are invaluable.

What are your thoughts on the ​increasing ​awareness of shingles and the ShingRix vaccine? Share⁣ your ⁤experiences or questions in the comments below.