What is shingles?
Shingles is a disease caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus. It mainly affects adults and older people who have previously had chickenpox.
It is a painful illness. It causes a skin rash, similar to blisters, along the path of a nerve. It lasts 2 to 3 weeks. The redness and small blisters become crusted in the painful area. Shingles can also lead to complications requiring hospitalization.
The protection offered by the shingles vaccine lasts for at least 9 years after vaccination. Two doses, spaced 2 to 12 months apart, are needed to ensure long-term protection.
Who can receive the vaccine?
The Shingrix vaccine against shingles is offered free of charge to people aged 75 and older and to people aged 18 and older who are immunocompromised. These individuals can be vaccinated regardless of their history of chickenpox or chickenpox vaccination.
The vaccine is also recommended for people aged 50 to 74, although it is not free for them. These individuals can book an appointment at certain community pharmacies.
Book an appointment:
- Online at ClicSanté
- By phone at 1-877-644-4545