14. Economic Impact: The Cost of Shingles
When discussing illnesses, the focus often remains on the physical and emotional toll. However, diseases like shingles come with an economic impact that can’t be ignored. The broader effects of shingles on healthcare and individual finances offer a different perspective on the disease.
For starters, hospitalizations linked to shingles and its complications can rack up significant bills. The need for antiviral medications, pain relievers, and other treatments can further amplify these costs. Moreover, given that shingles primarily affects older adults, the financial burden can be particularly challenging for those on fixed incomes or limited pensions.
Outside of direct medical expenses, there’s the cost associated with missed work. Shingles can be debilitating, leading to extended sick leaves. This not only affects individual earnings but can also impact businesses and the overall economy. Furthermore, for those who suffer from postherpetic neuralgia – the lingering nerve pain after the rash has healed – the recurrent medical visits and treatments further inflate costs.
Lastly, prevention, through vaccination, also carries a cost. However, when weighed against the potential expenses of treatment and the associated loss of work, the upfront investment in prevention can prove to be economically wise. This highlights the importance of a holistic view of diseases, considering both health and economic implications. (14)
