Shingles Is Serious — The Vaccine to Help Prevent It Is Now Free for Eligible Ontarians
As family physicians, we are always on the lookout for silent threats to your long-term health. One of these is shingles (also called herpes zoster), a painful and often debilitating condition caused by the reactivation of the same virus that causes chickenpox.
Who’s at Risk?
If you’ve had chickenpox—as over 90% of Canadians have—you carry the dormant varicella-zoster virus in your body. At some point, especially with age or a weakened immune system, this virus can reactivate and cause shingles.
About 1 in 3 people will develop shingles in their lifetime.
The condition starts with a blistering rash and can involve burning, stabbing, or shock-like nerve pain.
In many cases, shingles leads to postherpetic neuralgia (PHN)—chronic pain that can last months or even years.
Other complications may include:
- Scarring
- Vision or hearing loss
- Facial paralysis
- Fever, weakness, or bacterial infections
- Emotional distress due to persistent pain
Prevention: The SHINGRIX Vaccine
SHINGRIX is a two-dose, non-live recombinant vaccine that is more than 90% effective at preventing shingles and its complications. It is not used for treating shingles or primary varicella (chickenpox), but for prevention only.
Covered for Ontario Residents Aged 65–70
As of now, Ontario covers the full cost of the SHINGRIX vaccine for adults between the ages of 65 and 70 (inclusive) as part of the publicly funded immunization schedule. Outside of this age range, the vaccine may still be recommended but will need to be paid for out-of-pocket or through private insurance.
Source: Government of Canada Immunization Guide
Talk to Your Doctor Today
If you’re 65–70, don’t miss this opportunity. Once you turn 71, the free coverage no longer applies—and shingles risk increases with age. Speak to your physician at Orleans Family Health Clinic to see if you’re eligible, and whether SHINGRIX is right for you.
The most powerful form of preventive medicine is early action—and a healthy immune defense.
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Disclaimer: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider first. Full Disclaimer.
