Image Credit: USA Today
Elizabeth Banks recently opened up about her battle with shingles, calling the experience anything but pleasant. The Hunger Games actress and director shared that the illness forced her to miss work for the first time in her career, a disruption that served as a wake-up call. Shingles, caused by the varicella-zoster virus, is known for its painful, itchy rash, and Banks noted that it took longer than expected to clear up. Following her recovery, she opted to get vaccinated, aligning with recommendations for adults over 50.
The experience prompted Banks to reassess her overall health, leading her to advocate for other important vaccinations, including the pneumococcal pneumonia vaccine. Partnering with Pfizer, she is now raising awareness about the risks, highlighting that individuals over 50 are more than six times as likely to contract the illness compared to younger adults.
In addition to prioritizing vaccinations, Banks has been navigating perimenopause, experiencing symptoms such as brain fog and heightened emotions. She acknowledged that while these changes were unsettling, discussing them with healthcare professionals helped her manage the transition. She has since embraced a healthier lifestyle, incorporating more exercise, a better diet, and an earlier bedtime into her routine.
The actress, who shares two teenage sons with husband Max Handelman, expressed a strong commitment to longevity, both for herself and her family. Cherishing moments with her children, she enjoys daily walks with their dog and spending quality time together watching TV. Banks, who previously faced infertility struggles, emphasized the importance of open conversations about health, encouraging others to seek support when needed.
