A new global survey, launched ahead of Shingles Action Week (23 February – 1 March 2026) highlights the significant impact of shingles on adults aged 50 and above living with certain chronic health conditions in India, and reveals major gaps in prevention-related conversations. The survey, commissioned by GSK, shows that 43% of Indian participants who have had shingles reported severe, day-disrupting pain # , with over one in three reporting that it stopped them from working or attending social events. Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and Cardiovascular disease (CVD) experienced the greatest disruption, while diabetes and CVD patients reported the highest emotional toll.
Dr. Shalini Menon, Executive Vice President – Medical Affairs, GSK India, said: “India is living longer but not necessarily healthier. As people age, they are more likely to be affected by non-communicable diseases like diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, kidney diseases and lung disease. These conditions place additional strain on an already weakening immune system of ageing adults, further impairing the body’s ability to fight infections. Yet the survey reveals limited awareness about the link between chronic conditions and immune health among ageing adults. This underscores an urgent and growing need for patients to have regular, informed conversations with their doctors.”
Shingles is a painful and impairing disease caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes chickenpox. As people age, the strength of the immune system response to infection decreases, increasing the risk of developing shingles. Shingles typically begins as a rash on one side, with painful blisters eruptingon the chest, abdomen or face. Shingles can be prevented only through vaccination.