Shingles Vaccine

The shingles vaccine, recommended for people over the age of 60, has been available in Canada since 2009 and may prevent or reduce the severity of the illness. Nearly one in three Canadians will develop shingles in their lifetime but only a fraction of those in the target group are getting the vaccine.

Shingles is caused by the chickenpox virus and lies dormant in the nervous system for years before something triggers it, causing sharp pain and a blistering rash. If the rash spreads to the eyes, it may permanently damage vision.

The exact trigger for the virus to reactivate is not know, however the chances of developing shingles increases with age.

The cost of the vaccine in Canada is about $200 and is typically filled with a prescription at the pharmacy and then taken in a freezer pack to the doctor to be administered. It is estimated the vaccine is effective for about 7 years. Even if you have had shingles, vaccination may prevent getting it again but check with a doctor about the timing of a shot.

In the United States, the shingles vaccine is offered through pharmacies and is covered by Medicare Part D and in some cases the cost may be covered partially or in whole by insurance. Public health departments may also offer the vaccine at a reduced price.

But there’s more. New findings have made a connection between the virus and a blood vessel condition that affects elderly patients and can sometimes result in death. Giant cell arteritis, an inflammation of the blood vessels in the scalp, neck and arms is a conditions found in the population over 60 that can cause blindness, stoke and sometimes death.

A study out of the University of Colorado School of Medicine found the varicella zoster virus (which causes chickenpox and shingles) was present in 74 per cent of patients who died from giant cell arteritis. Although there may not be a direct link between the condition and shingles, the vaccine may help and is recommended by health officials in the U.S. and Canada for those over 60.

For more information about shingles and the vaccine refer to the fact sheet found at www.phac-aspc.gc.ca .