Shingles Vaccination

What is Shingles?

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a painful viral infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus—the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the body and can reactivate years later as shingles.

Shingles typically causes a painful rash with blisters, usually appearing on one side of the body or face. Pain, burning, or tingling may begin days before the rash appears.

Common symptoms include:

• Pain, burning, or sensitivity of the skin
• A red rash that develops into fluid-filled blisters
• Fever or headache
• Fatigue

While shingles can occur at any age, the risk increases with age, stress, and weakened immune systems.

The best way to protect yourself is with the a Shingrix vaccine. Protect your health and avoid serious illness by getting your Shingles vaccination at Destinations Travel and Immunization Clinic in Orléans.

The Government of Canada’s Shingles Page

Is HPV Vaccination Required?

Shingles vaccination is not required for travel or entry into any country. However, it is strongly recommended as a preventive vaccine for adults, particularly those 50 years of age and older, or individuals with certain medical conditions that increase risk.

Vaccination significantly reduces the risk of developing shingles and its complications, even in people who have had shingles before.

A healthcare provider or immunization clinic can confirm eligibility and recommend appropriate timing.

How Can I Protect Myself Against Shingles?

The most effective way to protect against shingles is vaccination.

The shingles vaccine:

• Reduces the risk of developing shingles
• Lowers the chance of long-term nerve pain
• Is given as a two-dose series, typically spaced several months apart

Maintaining overall health and managing chronic conditions may also help reduce risk, but vaccination remains the most reliable prevention.

Can Shingles Result in Serious Illness?

Yes. Shingles can lead to serious and long-lasting complications, the most common being postherpetic neuralgia (PHN)—severe nerve pain that can persist for months or even years after the rash has healed.

Other potential complications include:

• Vision loss if shingles affects the eye
• Skin infections
• Neurological complications

There is no cure for shingles once it develops, but vaccination greatly reduces the risk of severe illness and complications.

Is the Shingles Vaccine Covered by OHIP?

If you are aged 65–70 years and have not already received a publicly funded shingles vaccine, the shingles vaccine (Shingrix®) is covered by OHIP. This means the two‑dose series can be provided at no cost as part of Ontario’s publicly funded immunization program.

Quick eligibility snapshot

• **Ages 65–70 — OHIP‑covered for the shingles vaccine (two doses) if you have not previously received the publicly funded shingles vaccine.
• Younger than 65 or older than 70 — OHIP does not cover the shingles vaccine; you’ll likely pay out of pocket or through private insurance.

What this means for most adults

• Adults 50 years and older are generally recommended to get the shingles vaccine, because risk increases with age, but only those 65–70 qualify for free vaccination under OHIP.
• If you’re outside the 65–70 range, vaccination is still strongly recommended — you can pay privately or check if your private insurance covers the vaccine.

Why age matters

Ontario’s publicly funded program specifically targets adults 65 to 70 to help prevent severe illness and complications associated with shingles, giving priority within that age range.

A healthcare provider or immunization clinic can:

• Verify if you qualify for OHIP coverage
• Review private insurance options that might help with cost
• Discuss the best timing for vaccination based on your age and health