By adminPosted on June 7, 2025June 28, 2025 As a physician who regularly sees adult and elderly patients, I’ve noticed a growing awareness among Filipinos when it comes to preventive healthcare. One area that deserves more attention, especially for those aged 50 and above, is protection against shingles—a condition that can strike unexpectedly and leave lasting discomfort. Fortunately, vaccination offers an effective line of defense. What is Shingles: It’s More Than a Rash Shingles, or herpes zoster, is commonly misjudged. Most people think it’s merely a skin rash, but it’s more than that. It’s the result of the reawakening of the same virus that causes chickenpox. After you’ve had chickenpox—something very prevalent among Filipinos—the virus stays in your body forever, dormant until your immune system is compromised, usually with age. The symptoms can vary from pain and burning in the nerves to a blister rash, typically on one side of the body. Some patients get well within weeks, while others get postherpetic neuralgia—nerve pain that may last for months or years. Why I Recommend Vaccination for Patients 50 and Above From my experience as a clinician, I can attest that shingles not only causes physical pain; it can also significantly impact quality of life. That is why I advise my patients to think about taking the zoster vaccine in the Philippines, especially when they are in their 50s. The vaccine teaches the immune system to recognize the virus and fight it off before it results in a full-scale outbreak. It doesn’t promise absolute immunity, but it substantially reduces the risk of getting shingles and the impact and the duration if it does happen. For older adults—particularly those with diabetes, high blood pressure, or immune system issues—the protection afforded by vaccination is not only good; it’s necessary. What My Patients Ask: Where and How Much? One of the most frequent questions asked by patients is availability and price. Thankfully, the shingles vaccine in the Philippines is currently offered in most private hospitals, wellness clinics, and even some pharmacies. For those who value convenience, online platforms like Nowserving make it easy to book appointments. As for cost, the vaccine cost of shingles in the Philippines normally runs from ₱7,000 to ₱10,000 per dose, with two doses needed for the full series. The cost may be partially covered by some health insurance policies, senior discounts, or wellness programs, so it’s always best to inquire with your provider. Looking Ahead As a physician, my job is not only to cure disease but to assist patients in getting ahead of avoidable illnesses. Vaccination against shingles in the Philippines is among the most significant things elderly Filipinos can do to guard their health, autonomy, and peace of mind. If you or a family member is 50 or older, talk to your doctor about your choices. Featured
