Shingles is caused by varicella zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes chickenpox. It is more common in older adults, and the risk of developing shingles increases with age. To reduce the risk and severity of shingles in seniors, vaccination is recommended.
Tips & Links
Adults over 50 years of age and people with autoimmune conditions are more susceptible to develop shingles later in life.
Learn More
- Shingles is a viral infection that mostly affects people over 50 years of age causing a painful rash that looks like a single stripe of blisters on either side of your torso.
- After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus stays dormant (inactive) in their body. The virus can reactivate later, causing shingles. Most people who develop shingles have only one episode during their lifetime.
- Learn about the shingles vaccine at Healthlink BC. It is recommended for people over 50 years of age and is given in 2 doses 6 months apart.
- Know that the vaccine costs about $150/dose. Check to see if your health benefits plan covers the cost of the vaccines.
- Shingrix® vaccine coverage is available at no cost to First Nations Elders who are 65 years and older.
Things You Can Do
- Choose a location to get your vaccinations in BC including your physician’s or nurse practitioner’s office, pharmacies, or health units.
- Learn about about the different recommended vaccines if travelling from Healthlink BC.
- Understand that you may have a simple reaction to your vaccination. For suggestions on what to do look at vaccine after-care from Healthlink BC.
- Some reactions to vaccinations are days or weeks after the injection – mark those dates on your health calendar.
- Learn how to access Health-Gateway BC to set up your personal account and to access your vaccination history. Know how to access it on your phone.
Keep your vaccination record up to date in your Health Profile fillable PDF tool found in My Health Information.
Tools & Videos
Categories: My Health Information, Senior
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