NL Corresspondent
Jammu Tawi: GSK today launched a new campaign on Shingles awareness, featuring veteran actors Amitabh Bachchan and Manoj Pahwa, explaining the scientific link between chickenpox and Shingles. The campaign films use everyday conversations between two friends to talk about shingles and the increased susceptibility of shingles in people with diabetes. Commenting on the campaign, Manoj Pahwa said, “I am in an age group that is susceptible to shingles, and throughGSK's shingles awareness campaigns I have understood more about this painful disease and its associated risk factors.I have faced multiple health problems and know how difficult it is to lead an active and fulfilling life when affected by infectious diseases. I am proud to be a part of this initiative to educate people about the cause of shingles and the importance of prevention. I encourage adults over 50 years, to talk to their doctors about shingles and its prevention.”
Shingles is caused by the re-activation of the virus that lies dormant in the nerves if a person has had chickenpox.[iv]People with a history of chickenpox who also have diabetes face a 40% higher risk of developing shingles.[v]High blood sugar levels can weaken the immune system,[vi]and when that happens it can increase the risk of reactivation of the chickenpox virus and emergence of shingles.
Vigyeta Agrawal, Patient Empowerment Head, GSK said,“The 2023 API-Ipsos survey showed that even those who had shingles did not know the cause of this painful disease.[viii] It is essential that all people above the age of 50 years know about shingles and its prevention.
