The Importance of Healthy Living: Janet Street-Porter Advocates for Shingles Prevention

Renowned broadcaster and columnist, Janet Street-Porter, is utilising her platform to advocate for a healthy lifestyle, particularly in the context of shingles prevention, an infection caused by the same virus responsible for chickenpox. At 77 years of age, Street-Porter has experienced shingles twice in her 40s and 50s, and is now determined to inform and educate the ageing population on the benefits of healthy ageing.

A recent survey commissioned by GSK for Shingles Awareness Week in 2024 revealed that 85% of adults aged 60 and over view staying healthy as they age as ‘very important’. However, the number of people actually taking specific measures to remain healthy is significantly lower. It is evident that there is a disconnect between the desire to stay healthy and the lifestyle choices that support it.

Street-Porter emphasised the debilitating impact of shingles, describing it as a searing and unforgettable experience that leaves individuals unable to focus on anything else. She strongly believes in the direct link between healthy living and the prevention of shingles, highlighting the importance of consuming less processed food, exercising, and building up the immune system.

Teaming up with Olympic legend Sir Steve Redgrave for Shingles Awareness Week, Street-Porter is working to raise awareness about the importance of strengthening the immune system and taking advantage of the NHS vaccination programme. The National Immunisation Programme has recently expanded to increase access to the shingles vaccine, making it available to individuals aged sixty-five and over, as well as those over 50 with a severely weakened immune system. Additionally, anyone aged 70-79 is eligible for the vaccine.

In light of the survey findings, where only half of the respondents reported doing regular exercise and just 59% visit their doctor when experiencing worrying symptoms, Street-Porter stressed the need for setting realistic health goals and being proactive about seeking medical attention. She also whole-heartedly recommends the shingles vaccine for eligible individuals, based on her own painful experiences with the infection.

The campaign, Get Shingles Ready, spearheaded by GSK and supported by Steve Redgrave and Janet Street-Porter, aims to raise awareness and provide valuable information about shingles prevention. For those seeking more information, the campaign’s website, GetShinglesReady.co.uk, offers detailed resources and guidance.

In summary, Janet Street-Porter’s advocacy for healthy living and shingles prevention is crucial, especially as the risk of shingles increases with age. By sharing her own experiences and championing the importance of healthy living and vaccination, Street-Porter is making a significant impact in promoting the well-being of the ageing population.