South Africa: What If A Shingles Jab Could Also Protect Your Brain?
South Africa has launched the Shingrix vaccine, which prevents shingles and may potentially lower the risk of dementia. The article examines the high cost of the vaccine and the challenges of increasing adult vaccination rates in the country.
Why it matters
The introduction of a high-cost preventative treatment raises questions about public health accessibility and the economic trade-offs of medical innovation in developing markets.
Could a vaccine that protects you against one of the most painful diseases of older age also help keep your brain healthy? South Africa has finally launched Shingrix, a new shingles vaccine that studies suggest may lower the risk of dementia too. We unpack what the evidence really shows - and whether the hefty price tag is worth it.
The article presents both the medical potential of the vaccine and the economic barriers to its adoption in South Africa.
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