The Norwegian Institute of Public Health (FHI) has called on the Ministry of Health and Care Services to add the shingles vaccine to Norway's vaccination program for adults. FHI suggests that all individuals should be offered the vaccine when they turn 65, along with a temporary program to catch up 70- and 75-year-olds who may have missed out on it. This recommendation stems from rising cases of shingles and the associated complications that can arise from the illness.

FHI's recommendation emphasizes the vaccine's effectiveness in protecting against shingles and its complications, which can significantly impact the quality of life of elderly individuals. The growing prevalence of shingles in the population prompts the need for broader vaccination efforts, particularly for those in higher age brackets who are already at increased risk.

There have been previous reports suggesting that the shingles vaccine may also have a role in preventing dementia, which adds an intriguing dimension to the recommendation. By advocating for wider access to the shingles vaccine, the FHI aims to not only curb the incidence of the disease itself but potentially alleviate some of the burdens associated with age-related cognitive decline within the healthcare system.