HEALTH CARE BRIEF: Incidence rates, symptoms, risks, prevention, treatment & research in Shingles (Herpes Zoster)
With
Dr Queenie Luu
Rheumatologist, Sydney
HEALTH CARE BRIEF SEGMENT
Filmed in Sydney | October 2026
Dr Luu responds to the following questions
- What is the incidence of herpes zoster (shingles) in the Australian population?
- How does shingles present clinically, and what complications can affect patient outcomes?
- How does early medical intervention influence disease progression and the risk of complications associated with shingles?
- What demographic and clinical factors are associated with an increased risk of shingles?
- What infection prevention and control measures are recommended for patients presenting with shingles?
- Which clinical settings can shingles be appropriately managed?
- What is the association between rheumatoid arthritis and the incidence of shingles?
- What conversations should healthcare professionals have to identify patients who may benefit from shingles vaccination?
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Representing the profession that impacts individual lives and communities
Michelle Oliver is a highly experienced Occupational Therapist with nearly two decades of leadership and clinical expertise across the mental health, homelessness, and disability sectors. She holds a Master of Occupational Therapy from the University of South Australia and is a registered practitioner with AHPRA.
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