Challenges in Shingles Prevention

EP: 1.Best Practices for Educating Patients About Shingles

EP: 2.Risk Factors and Complications Associated With Shingles

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EP: 3.Challenges in Shingles Prevention

Preventing shingles, especially in high-risk patients, hinges almost entirely on vaccination, as there are no specific treatments to stop the virus from reactivating. While general health advice like proper nutrition, sufficient sleep, exercise, and stress reduction supports immune function, it is not a replacement for vaccination. Patients with chronic conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are particularly vulnerable to complications and should be encouraged to manage their underlying conditions carefully to avoid further strain on their health. Prevention efforts should focus on promoting overall well-being while strongly advocating for vaccination as the most effective form of protection.

One of the biggest challenges in promoting vaccines today is the lingering vaccine fatigue and mistrust that many patients feel post COVID-19 pandemic. Many are overwhelmed by the volume of vaccine-related information and unsure about what is truly safe and necessary. However, pharmacists remain among the most trusted health care providers and can use routine interactions—like prescription pickups or flu shot visits—as opportunities to educate patients about the shingles vaccine. Coordinating vaccine schedules with regular pharmacy visits helps improve uptake, especially when vaccines are offered in a timely, convenient, and clearly communicated way.

Pharmacies are uniquely positioned to support vaccine education and access. Patients often need multiple reminders or conversations before agreeing to get vaccinated. Repetition from various pharmacy staff—including technicians with personal experiences—can build comfort and trust over time. Seasonal timing also plays a key role; patients are more open to receiving vaccines in the fall or winter, when flu and respiratory virus concerns are already top of mind. Using visual aids, like photos of a shingles rash, can further emphasize the risks in a way that’s harder to convey with other illnesses. These multitouch, personalized approaches significantly increase the chances of successful vaccine conversations and follow-through.