Vaccinations

Shingles

Shield yourself from the pain and complications of shingles with a safe and effective vaccine.

Protect Yourself from Shingles

Shingles is a painful viral infection caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus (varicella-zoster), which can lie dormant in your body for decades. It typically presents as a blistering rash accompanied by intense nerve pain, and can lead to long-term complications such as postherpetic neuralgia. The risk increases significantly after age 50, but the shingles vaccine can greatly reduce your chances of developing it — and lessen its severity if it does occur.

Find a Shingles Vaccine Near You

Locate a nearby PharmaChoice pharmacy offering the shingles vaccine. Take the first step toward protecting yourself from shingles today.

Frequently asked questions

Get answers to common questions about the shingles vaccine, including who should get it, how many doses are needed, and what side effects to expect.

Who should get the shingles vaccine?

The shingles vaccine is recommended for adults aged 50 and older, regardless of whether they have had shingles before. It is also recommended for immunocompromised individuals aged 19 and older.

How many doses of the shingles vaccine are needed?

The shingles vaccine requires two doses given 2 to 6 months apart. Both doses are necessary for full protection.

Can I get the shingles vaccine at a pharmacy?

Yes, the shingles vaccine is available at most PharmaChoice pharmacy locations.

Does the shingles vaccine have side effects?

Common side effects include soreness at the injection site, redness, fatigue, and mild fever. These are temporary and indicate your immune system is responding to the vaccine.

Is the shingles vaccine covered by insurance?

Coverage varies by province and insurance plan. Some provinces cover the vaccine for eligible age groups. Check with your pharmacist or insurance provider for details.

Learn More About Shingles Prevention

Explore helpful articles from our Advice For Life blog for more information on shingles symptoms, prevention tips, and what to expect after vaccination.

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