New Brunswick Lags Behind in Publicly Funded Shingles Vaccine

New Brunswick is set to become the only Atlantic province without a publicly funded shingles vaccination program for older residents. Starting on October 16, 2023, the government of Newfoundland and Labrador will provide free shingles vaccines to residents aged 65 and older, as well as to immunocompromised individuals between the ages of 50 and 64.

This decision follows similar initiatives in neighboring provinces. In May, Nova Scotia introduced a free shingles vaccine policy for those aged 65 and above. Additionally, last September, Prince Edward Island lowered the eligibility age for its shingles vaccine from 60 to 50. Despite these advances, New Brunswick’s Department of Health has not responded to inquiries about the situation or plans for a publicly funded program.

Pharmacist Jennifer Wellings-Gallant from Saint John reports a strong demand for the shingles vaccine across New Brunswick. Many residents without insurance are opting to pay out-of-pocket, which can be a significant financial burden. “It’s $200 a shot, and you need to get two shots,” Wellings-Gallant noted. She emphasized that public funding for the vaccine is essential, particularly for older individuals who face heightened risks of severe complications from shingles, including potential blindness if the infection affects the eye.

The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommends shingles vaccination for individuals aged 50 and older with healthy immune systems. Advocates argue that a publicly funded vaccine program could lead to significant savings in healthcare costs. Laura Tamblyn Watts, president and CEO of the national seniors’ advocacy group CanAge, stated, “If you get shingles, your chance of recurrence is very high. That means you’re going to your pharmacist, your primary care physician if you have one. You may be in the hospital to get the care.”

Watts further emphasized that the government could achieve immediate savings in the healthcare system by funding shingles vaccines, similar to the approach taken by other Atlantic provinces.

Recent studies have also suggested a link between receiving the shingles vaccine and a reduced risk of heart disease and dementia. Such findings underscore the importance of preventive healthcare measures for older populations.

As New Brunswick stands without a publicly funded shingles vaccination program, many residents continue to express concern regarding access to this critical healthcare resource. For more updates on health initiatives in New Brunswick, visit our dedicated provincial page.