09/04/2025
UPCOMING SHINGLES VACCINE CLINIC
We are pleased to share that you may now be eligible to receive the Shingrix® vaccine, which helps protect against shingles and its complications.
If you are between 65 and 70 years of age (up until your 71st birthday), this vaccine is fully covered through OHIP.
Why get vaccinated?
Shingles is a painful rash caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. It can lead to serious complications, including nerve pain (post-herpetic neuralgia), especially in older adults. Shingrix is a highly effective vaccine with long-lasting protection.
Key Benefits:
1. Prevents Shingles (Herpes Zoster)
Shingrix is over 90% effective at preventing shingles in adults aged 50 and older, and maintains this high level of protection even in adults 70+.
Shingles causes a painful, blistering rash, usually on one side of the body, often accompanied by fever, headache, and fatigue.
2. Reduces Risk of Postherpetic Neuralgia (PHN)
PHN is chronic nerve pain that can last for months or even years after a shingles outbreak—especially common in older adults.
Shingrix reduces the risk of PHN by more than 85%, even in people who still get shingles after vaccination.
3. Protects Against Recurrence
Even if you've had shingles before, you're still at risk of getting it again.
Shingrix helps prevent repeat episodes and is recommended even for people with past shingles history (after full recovery).
Shingrix is a two dose vaccine with the second dose received between 2-6 months after the first.
If you have previously received Zostavax®, you are eligible to receive the Shingrix vaccine for added protection.
If you have previously received two doses of Shingrix, you do not need a 'booster' as you are already protected.
SHINGLES VACCINE CLINIC:
Clinic Date: Tuesday, September 16th
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Location: Sharbot Lake Family Health Team (Basement entrance)
To book your appointment or to clarify eligibility, please call our reception team at 613-279-2100 ext 115, or email us at vaccines.slfht@gmail.com.