New Brunswick Lags as Atlantic Provinces Fund Shingles Vaccines

New Brunswick is set to become the only province in Atlantic Canada without a publicly funded shingles vaccine program for older residents. Starting on Monday, October 2, 2023, Newfoundland and Labrador will offer free shingles vaccinations to individuals aged 65 and over, as well as to immunocompromised residents between the ages of 50 and 64. This follows similar initiatives in other Atlantic provinces where the importance of vaccination has gained recognition.

On May 1, 2023, Nova Scotia also implemented a free shingles vaccine policy for residents aged 65 and older. Additionally, Prince Edward Island reduced the age eligibility for their free shingles vaccine from 60 to 50 last September. In contrast, New Brunswick’s Department of Health has not provided a response to inquiries regarding its lack of a publicly funded vaccine program.

The demand for the shingles vaccine in New Brunswick remains high, according to local pharmacist Jennifer Wellings-Gallant. Many residents without insurance are opting to pay out-of-pocket, with the cost of the vaccine reaching approximately $200 per dose, requiring two doses for full immunization. Wellings-Gallant emphasizes the need for public funding, particularly for older populations, due to the risk of complications from shingles infections.

“There are serious risks associated with shingles, including potential blindness if the infection affects the eye,” says Wellings-Gallant. The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommends shingles vaccinations for individuals aged 50 and older with a healthy immune system, highlighting the importance of preventive measures in reducing health risks.

Advocacy groups are also calling for action. Laura Tamblyn Watts, president and CEO of the national seniors’ advocacy organization CanAge, argues that a publicly funded vaccine program would not only promote health but also yield economic benefits. “If you get shingles, your chance of recurrence is very high,” she explains. This increased need for healthcare resources can place additional strain on the system. “All this government would have to do is agree to fund shingles like every other Atlantic province, and we would see immediate savings in our healthcare systems.”

Recent research has indicated a connection between receiving the shingles vaccine and a reduced risk of both heart disease and dementia, further underscoring the urgency of making the vaccine readily accessible to older adults. As New Brunswick stands alone in its current approach, the call for a publicly funded vaccine program grows louder, with significant implications for the health and well-being of its residents.

For the latest updates on health initiatives in New Brunswick, visit our dedicated provincial news page.