1 in every 3 people will develop shingles in their lifetime. The odds of developing this painful disease only increases with age, and so does the risk of the serious complications that can follow the disease, such as “post-herpetic neuralgia”. Zostavax is the first and only vaccine proven to prevent, or at least decrease the severity of a shingles episode, as well as the risk of post-shingles complications.
Zostavax is indicated in all patients over the age of 50 years. Unfortunately, OHIP does not currently fund this vaccine, but many private insurance plans cover the one time cost. I highly recommend it to all my patients over the age of 50, and I personally couldn’t wait to take it myself!
Here is my 2-minute radio clip about Zostavax.