Government to begin offering Shingles Vaccine

The provincial government will begin offering the shingles vaccine to residents 65 to 70 years of age and immunocompromised residents over the age of 70 as part of the provincial immunization program, effective June 1, 2025.

Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which remains dormant after an individual has had chickenpox and can lead to postherpetic neuralgia in some people, a condition that causes long-lasting nerve pain and can significantly affect an individual’s quality of life. Currently, antiviral treatments can reduce the pain of acute shingles if administered early.

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent shingles and its complications.