Shingles vaccine offered free to people 75 and older

The shingles vaccine will be offered to people aged 75 years and older starting at age 1.^uh next May at local service points and pharmacies.

Quebec made the announcement Sunday afternoon in a press release. This is an extension of an existing measure. Previously, the vaccine was offered to people 80 and older.

The goal is to provide long-term protection against the most common complications of herpes zoster, such as postherpetic neuralgia, hospitalization, or death.

“Increasing access to the shingles vaccine is part of one of the priorities of the Health Plan, which aims to strengthen prevention,” said Health Minister Christian Dubé. We are committed to offering Quebecers complete protection against this disease, the complications of which can be very painful and sometimes fatal.

The government also announced a $125 million budget over five years to ensure free access to shingles vaccinations for the people of Quebec.

In Quebec, there are about 27,000 cases of shingles each year, 600 hospitalizations and 10 deaths caused by the disease, about 80% of which occur in people aged 80 and older, according to the Ministry of Health and Social Services.

People eligible for the shingles vaccine can make an appointment starting March 1.^uh Available at Clic Santé or by calling 1 877 644-4545.