Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the varicella zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox earlier in life, which 97% of Australians over 40 already carry. As the immune system naturally weakens with age, the dormant virus can reactivate and present as shingles. It is a common disease estimated to affect more than 100,000 Australians every year.
New research, commissioned by GSK Australia, reveals that while most Australians aged 50-69 are aware of shingles risk factors and potential impact, many underestimate their own risk. While the majority recognise shingles can cause a potentially painful rash (80%) and longer-term complications such as nerve pain (79%), less than half (43%) worry that shingles may potentially disrupt their life and almost a quarter (24%) do not believe it is their responsibility to speak to a doctor about shingles. Notably, one in three (33%) respondents are not aware that shingles is caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus.
Following her own experience with the condition, Julia Morris is urging Australians aged 50 and over to understand and take action on a real personal risk. Julia is unveiling a public installation called ‘What’s Your Hidden Health Baggage?’ at Sydney’s Circular Quay on Tuesday 14 October, 2025. The installation features 97 bags, representing the 97% of Australians over 40 who already carry the chickenpox virus and are at risk of developing shingles.
“When shingles hit me, I was in the middle of one of the busiest times of my career. The physical toll was immediate and overwhelming — I had a red rash across my torso, an aching body and the most brutal headache,” said Ms Morris.
“I could barely get through a day without collapsing back into bed. Even simple tasks like having a shower left me exhausted and I was completely debilitated for weeks. Shingles wasn’t just painful; it completely altered how I lived and worked.” she said.
Shingles affects everyone differently; however, it typically produces a painful, blistering rash that usually lasts 1-2 weeks and complications can extend beyond the initial rash and pain.