Originally from Da Nang, Nguyet often heard her mother complain about the burning pain caused by shingles on her rib cage. The rash caused her such agony that she couldn't eat or sleep. The pain lingered for over three months even after the blisters healed. Nguyet learned that this disease is common in people 50 and older, those with chronic illnesses, and those with weakened immune systems.

So, in early August, she returned to Vietnam and took her mother and more than 10 other family members over 50 to the VNVC center in Da Nang for shingles and flu shots. She believed this would alleviate her mother's pain and protect the others.

"In the past, I would give money, local fruits like cherries and grapes, or sweets and chocolates as gifts. Everyone enjoyed them, but the novelty soon wore off. This time, after the vaccinations, the gift of vaccines became a lasting topic of conversation. My parents and relatives were happy that I cared about the health of the older generation in our family," Nguyet said.

Adults receiving pneumococcal vaccinations at the VNVC Vaccination System. Photo: Hoang Duong

Nguyet has also noticed her own health declining, getting sick more easily, and wounds taking longer to heal. In Australia, people over 65 receive free flu and shingles vaccines through the National Immunization Program. Since she isn't old enough for free vaccinations, she decided to get them while in Vietnam with her family.

Similarly, Dinh Khai, 40, a Vietnamese expat from Canada, chose vaccinations as a special gift for his family. He explained that his family lives in Ontario, Canada, where residents receive free annual flu shots, and those 65 and older receive pneumococcal vaccines, with those aged 65-70 also eligible for the shingles vaccine. His parents have already received these vaccines. They suggested the gift of vaccines after hearing a neighbor complain about the prolonged pain of shingles. In addition to vaccines for adults, Khai also funded flu shots for his 5 nieces and nephews before they returned to school.

Doctor Nguyen Huu Thanh Dat, Head Doctor of the VNVC vaccination center in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, reported that recently, many Vietnamese expats returning home have brought their parents, aunts, uncles, and other relatives for vaccinations. The three most common vaccines chosen by expats for their relatives are flu, pneumococcal, and shingles vaccines, in addition to other vaccines administered based on the epidemiological situation, such as dengue fever and Japanese encephalitis.

Proactive vaccination and a healthy lifestyle enhance the quality of life and longevity of the elderly. Illustration: Vecteezy

"I can sense the joy and pride of families when their children or grandchildren bring them for vaccinations. This act demonstrates care for their health in a way that material gifts or money often can't," said Dr. Dat.

In addition to vaccinations, Dr. Dat emphasized the importance of a healthy lifestyle for older adults, including regular meals, a diverse and nutritious diet rich in fruits and vegetables, gentle exercise or walking, regular sleep schedules, and avoiding screen time before bed to maintain a strong immune system.

Hue Lan