1 in 3 Canadians Will Get Shingles. Will You?
Answer 5 quick questions and we'll assess your risk level — plus tell you everything about the vaccine that's 90%+ effective at preventing it.
How old are you?
Have you ever had chickenpox?
Note: 99% of Canadians born before 1995 carry the virus — even if they don't remember having chickenpox.
Do you have any conditions that weaken your immune system?
Cancer, HIV, autoimmune disease, organ transplant, or taking immunosuppressive drugs (e.g., prednisone, methotrexate, biologics).
Are you currently experiencing high stress or recent illness?
Physical or emotional stress weakens immune response and is a known shingles trigger.
Have you had shingles before?
🛡️ About Shingrix
- Effectiveness: Over 90% at preventing shingles
- Schedule: 2 doses, 2–6 months apart
- Recommended for: Adults 50+ and immunocompromised adults 18+
- Duration: Protection lasts 7+ years and counting
💰 Cost & Coverage
- Cost: ~$150–200 per dose (2 doses needed)
- Alberta Health: Not currently covered
- Private insurance: Many plans cover Shingrix — bring your benefits card
- Available at: Imagine Health Pharmacy — no referral needed
⚡ What Shingles Actually Does
- Burning, stabbing nerve pain for 2–4 weeks (sometimes months)
- Blistering rash on one side of the body or face
- Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN): Chronic pain lasting months to years in 10–18% of cases
- Can cause vision loss if it affects the eye
Common Shingles Myths
"I never had chickenpox, so I can't get shingles."
99% of Canadians born before 1995 carry the varicella-zoster virus — many had such mild cases they don't remember.
"Shingles is just a rash — it's not that bad."
Shingles causes severe nerve pain rated worse than childbirth by some patients. PHN can last months or years.
"I already had shingles, so I'm immune now."
Shingles can recur. In fact, having had shingles once is a reason to get vaccinated — to prevent a second episode.
Ready to Protect Yourself?
Shingrix is available at Imagine Health Pharmacy — no referral needed. Walk in or call to book.