Local MEP calls for vaccination against shingles
Galway Bay fm newsroom - People over the age of 60 should be offered vaccination against shingles.
That's according to North West MEP Marian Harkin, who's involved in a parliament group on the societal impact of pain.
Shingles, which is caused by the herpes-zoster virus, can result in post-herpetic neuralgia, especially in older people.
The World Health Organisation recommends one dose of innoculation for anyone over 60.
Northern Ireland, Austria, Germany, the US and Canada are among the countries already offering a free vaccination against the disease.
MEP Harkin says the move would prevent unneccesary suffering.