National Shingles Awareness Week: A Preventable Pain Too Many Older Canadians Still Suffer
Each year, over 90,000 Canadians aged 50 and older develop shingles, a painful condition that can lead to lasting complications, including chronic nerve pain and vision loss. Despite the availability of an effective vaccine, only 39% of eligible Canadians have received at least one dose, leaving thousands unnecessarily vulnerable to this preventable disease.
The National Institute on Ageing (NIA) is urging all Canadians aged 50 and older to protect themselves through vaccination. The Shingrix vaccine, recommended by the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI), offers strong protection against shingles and its complications, yet cost remains a significant barrier for many older adults. While some provinces and territories cover the cost for certain populations, access remains inconsistent across Canada.
