Active Retirement Ireland has launched a petition calling on the government to include shingles vaccination for adults aged 65 and older in the 2026 National Immunisation Programme — free of charge at the point of delivery.
Shingles is a painful and potentially serious condition, and older adults are at highest risk. Post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), a common complication of shingles, can cause persistent pain, reduced mobility and limits on independent living.
Active Retirement Ireland Head of Policy and Advocacy Alison Bough said the high cost of the vaccine puts it well out of reach for many, creating inequitable health outcomes for older people in Ireland based on income.
“Older people in Ireland are being asked to pay an average of €500 privately for a shingles vaccine that can prevent serious pain, illness and loss of independence. For those who can’t afford it, this means they are essentially excluded from accessing available preventative healthcare to minimise their risk. That simply isn’t equitable.
“We are calling for fair, state-supported access to the shingles vaccine for adults aged 65+. Please sign our petition and help us make the case that access to preventative healthcare should never depend on ability to pay.”
Specifically, the petition asks that the Minister for Health, the Department of Health and the Health Service Executive:
1. Include shingles vaccination for adults aged 65+, free of charge at the point of delivery, in the 2026 National Immunisation Programme.
2. Remove cost as a barrier to ensure equitable access for all older people.
3. Recognise that prevention reduces GP visits, hospitalisation, and supports independent living and healthy ageing.
4. Align with international best practice: the UK, Germany, France, Spain, Canada, Australia, and the US provide the vaccine at low or no cost.
Show your support, and sign the petition here.