Are you a senior looking to stay healthy in 2023? If so, then you’ll be thrilled to know that the government is offering free shingles vaccines for seniors. In this blog post, we’ll explain how and where to get the vaccine and what other benefits it may offer.
What is the Shingrix Vaccine
The Shingrix vaccine is a two-dose immunization that helps protect people against shingles, a painful and sometimes debilitating disease caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. The Shingrix vaccine has been approved and recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). As of January 2023, seniors age 65 to 70 who are covered by Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage will be eligible for the Shingrix vaccine for free.
Who is Eligible for the Free Vaccine
If you’re a senior over 65 years old, you may be eligible to receive the Shingrix vaccine for free starting in January 2023. Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage will cover the cost of the vaccine, meaning seniors with this coverage won’t have to pay out-of-pocket for the vaccine. In Ontario, seniors between the ages of 65 and 70 are eligible for the publicly funded Shingrix vaccine, and those who have not received the Zostavax® II vaccine are eligible for the free vaccine. Other provinces may have different eligibility requirements, so it’s important to check with your local health provider for more details.
Where to Get the Free Vaccine
If you’re a senior living in Ontario, you can get the free Shingrix vaccine at participating pharmacies and at doctors’ offices. To find a location near you, you can visit the Ontario government’s website. The website also provides more information on the vaccine and how to register for it. If you’re a senior living in another province, you may be eligible for the free vaccine depending on your province’s health coverage. Be sure to check with your local health authority for more information.
How to Sign Up for the Shingrix Vaccine
If you’re eligible for the free Shingrix vaccine, it’s important to sign up for it as soon as possible. The vaccine is available in Ontario for seniors ages 65 to 70 years and will be free for those with Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage starting in January 2023. Depending on where you live, you may be able to get the vaccine at a pharmacy, a doctor’s office, or other healthcare provider. To make sure you get the vaccine quickly, it’s best to call ahead and make an appointment. When you arrive, you’ll need to show proof of eligibility and provide any necessary information. Once you’re signed up, you’ll receive the two-dose series of the vaccine. It’s important to receive both doses in order for the vaccine to be effective.
What to Expect When Receiving the Shingrix Vaccine
Receiving the Shingrix vaccine is a fairly simple process. Depending on your doctor or clinic, you will typically schedule an appointment to get vaccinated. During the appointment, the healthcare professional will discuss the benefits and risks of the vaccine, and answer any questions you may have. Once you are given the vaccine, it is important to stay in the clinic or doctor’s office for at least 15 minutes to ensure that you do not experience any adverse reactions. It is also important to remember that the Shingrix vaccine is administered in two doses, separated by two to six months. It is important to get both doses to ensure you receive the full benefit.
Common Side Effects of the Shingrix Vaccine
The Shingrix vaccine has been deemed safe for most people, but as with any vaccine, there may be some common side effects. The most common side effects of the Shingrix vaccine are soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site, headache, fatigue, and muscle pain. These side effects are usually mild and can easily be treated with over-the-counter medications. It is important to note that if you experience any of these side effects, they should subside within a few days. Less common side effects may include fever, nausea, and joint pain. If any of these symptoms persist for more than a few days, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional.
It is also important to be aware of any of the rare cases of serious reactions to the Shingrix vaccine. These reactions are very rare and can include difficulty breathing, chest pain, and neurological issues. If you experience any of these symptoms after receiving the Shingrix vaccine, seek medical attention immediately.
How Long Does the Shingrix Vaccine Last
Seniors who receive the Shingrix vaccine can expect to be protected from shingles for up to five years. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend getting the vaccine every five years, even if you’ve already been vaccinated. This is because the protection from the vaccine can start to wear off over time, and getting the vaccine again will help to boost your immunity. If you’ve already been vaccinated, you should get the booster dose at least five years after your initial vaccination. It’s also important to note that the Shingrix vaccine is not recommended for those over the age of 80.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Shingrix Vaccine
If you have any further questions or concerns regarding the shingles vaccine or the Shingrix vaccine specifically, you may be wondering what the most common FAQs are. In this section, we’ll address some of the most commonly asked questions about the Shingrix vaccine.
The Shingrix vaccine has been shown to be effective in reducing the risk of shingles and its complications. It is recommended for all adults over the age of 50, as well as for those between the ages of 65 and 70 who have not yet received the Zostavax® II vaccine. The vaccine is free for seniors with Medicare who have Part D prescription drug coverage beginning in January 2023.
When receiving the Shingrix vaccine, you will receive two doses, administered two to six months apart. It is important that both doses are received to ensure optimal protection from the virus. Common side effects of the vaccine include soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site, headache, fatigue, and muscle aches.
The Shingrix vaccine is designed to provide long-lasting protection from shingles. However, it is not a replacement for other preventive measures such as getting regular checkups and screenings, and avoiding contact with people who have shingles. If you miss your second dose of Shingrix, it is important to speak to your doctor as soon as possible.
Remember, the best way to stay healthy and avoid shingles is to practice good hygiene, get plenty of rest, exercise regularly, and eat a balanced diet. If you are at risk of contracting shingles, the Shingrix vaccine is an important tool in helping to protect you and
What If I Miss My Second Dose of Shingrix
Missing your second dose of Shingrix can be worrying for seniors, but it’s important to keep in mind that it is still possible to receive protection from shingles even if you do miss your second dose. It is recommended that you speak with your doctor or healthcare provider about the best course of action for you. Depending on the amount of time that has passed since your first dose, your doctor may recommend that you receive the second dose or that you wait until the recommended time to receive it. In some cases, your doctor may even suggest that you receive a third dose if you are still not adequately protected. It is important to follow the advice of your doctor to ensure that you receive the best possible protection against shingles.
Tips for Seniors to Stay Healthy and Avoid Shingles
As seniors, there are a few simple steps we can take to stay healthy and avoid shingles. Firstly, it is important to remain physically active to maintain muscle strength and flexibility. Regular exercise can also help boost the immune system, which helps prevent the virus from attacking the body. Additionally, seniors should strive to eat a balanced and nutritious diet, as a healthy diet helps to strengthen the body’s natural defenses against infection. Finally, it is important to get enough rest and sleep as this helps to keep the immune system functioning properly. With these tips in mind, seniors can take proactive steps to stay healthy and avoid shingles.