Shingle bells ring warning on effects of painful red rash
Shingle bells, shingles bells, get your health check today, oh what fun it is to be safe and healthy - yay!
This sponsored story is brought to you by Murray Bridge Medical Centre.
Around one in every three people will develop shingles at some point in their life.
For Wendy Ziersch, Murray Bridge Medical Centre practice manager, her shingles were minor, but this isn't always the case.
"I was very fortunate but for some people, it can be debilitating for weeks," she said.
Shingle comes in the form a blistering, painful, red rash caused by the same virus that causes chicken pox.
"It follows the nerve pathways... it can have a very painful shooting feeling."
So if you've never had chicken pox, you're in luck, as shingles is the reactivation of the dormant chickenpox virus that stays in your body after the infection.
Doctor Hayan Naser said any stress, flu, or any change to immunity may bring the shingle infection on.
"We see it in all ages but it is more prevalent in senior people," he said.
The rash develops into painful blisters that pop and crust over, usually on one side of the body either on the chest, face, abdomen, pelvis or back.
The start of shingle symptoms may look like:
- an area of sensitive skin with burning pain, tingling or itching
- sensitivity to light
- headache
- tiredness
How shingles and chicken pox can possibly spread. Photos: Health Direct
The best way to prevent shingles is by vaccination; be sure to talk to your local health professional about your eligibility for the free shingles vaccine.
"It's two doses, two to six months apart and free for people over the age of 50 and those who are immunocompromised," Dr Nasar said.
"The efficacy of the vaccine is very good... it may not fully prevent the infection but it makes it more mild."
A very Merry Christmas wished to all from Wendy Ziersch
As we come to the close of another year, the team at Murray Bridge Medical Centre would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our wonderful community for your unwavering support throughout 2025.
It is a privilege to care for you and your families, and we are deeply grateful for the trust you continue to place in us.
We wish each of you a safe, healthy and peaceful Christmas season or for some end of year celebrations, rest and recouperation.
May this time bring connection and joy with the people who matter most.
In light of the tragic events in Bondi, we are reminded of the strength found within communities that value compassion, diversity, and unity.
Our practice is made richer by the many cultures, backgrounds and beliefs represented among our staff and our patients.
We thank our community for embracing this diversity and for standing with us in upholding respect, kindness, and understanding
Together, we show that our greatest strength lies in our shared resistance to violence and aggression, and in our commitment to creating a safe, welcoming environment for all.
- Book a health check: Visit Murray Bridge Medical Centre at 35-37 Adelaide Road, Murray Bridge between 8am and 9pm on weekdays, call 8531 2988 or visit www.murraybridgemedical.com.au.
Advertising to more than 20,000 highly engaged locals can do wonders for your business. Call Murray Bridge News’ Jane Intini on 0418 835 768 or email jane@murraybridge.news.
Peri Strathearn
