95% of Canadians have had chickenpox and are therefore at risk for shingles, a painful and potentially debilitating condition. It is estimated that nearly 1 in 3 people will experience shingles in their lifetime. Your risk increases as you get older, especially after 50 years of age.
In this program, Margaret Wallis-Duffy shares her father’s painful journey through shingles, while Today’s Pharmacist offers information about the disease and insight for preventing it.
The shingles vaccine is for the prevention of herpes zoster (shingles) and for immunization of individuals 50 years of age or older. The shingles vaccine does not protect everyone, so some people who get the vaccine may still get shingles. The shingles vaccine cannot be used to reduce or treat existing shingles or the pain associated with existing shingles. Side effects such as redness, pain, hard lump, itching, warmth and bruising at the injection site can occur as well as headache and arm or leg pain. Allergic reactions can occur. Ask your healthcare provider if the shingles vaccine is right for you.
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