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.
Locate a nearby PharmaChoice pharmacy offering the shingles vaccine. Take the first step toward protecting yourself from shingles today.
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.
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.
The shingles vaccine requires two doses given 2 to 6 months apart. Both doses are necessary for full protection.
Yes, the shingles vaccine is available at most PharmaChoice pharmacy locations.
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.
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.
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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