Shingles is a painful and difficult disease, but the length and severity of the disease in immunocompromised people can often be compounded and exacerbate already complex health conditions.
AusPIP and BAA have been advocating for expanded access to Shingrix® after the 2023-24 federal budget funding decision limited access to only those “immunocompromised patients aged 18 years and over with: haemopoietic stem cell transplant; solid organ transplant; haematological malignancy; and advanced or untreated HIV.”
This denied funded access to patients with common and complex immunocompromised need patients like those with primary and secondary immunodeficiency. It also denied access to patients with immune system vulnerabilities as a result of treatments for common chronic diseases such as diabetes, arthritis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder and multiple sclerosis without subsidised access.
From 30 August 2024 funded access to Shingrix® has been expanded to include anyone “18 years and over considered at increased risk of herpes zoster due to an underlying condition and/or immunosuppressive treatments
BAA and AusPIPs have welcomed the decision and issued the attached media release with comments from both organisations about the important first step this represents in modernising Australia's approach to adult vaccination and the important role it plays in preventative health for adults particularly with the increasing use of treatment that impact the immune system as part of better chronic disease management.
Quotes for attribution and Quick facts attached in full press release.
Key Facts:
This vaccine was listed on the ARTG 1950 days before it was subsidised on the National Immunisation Program
#100days
About us:
AusPIPS Inc represents primary and secondary immunodeficient (PID SID) patients in Australia, and Better Access Australia works with patients groups to advocate for improved health, disability and social services in Australia.
Contact details:
BAA: fmcneill@betteraccessaustralia.org.au
AusPIPS president@auspips.org.au