This resource provides a comprehensive overview of shingles (herpes zoster), a nerve infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella zoster virus. It details the symptoms, causes, and risk factors of shingles, emphasizing the critical importance of vaccination, particularly for those over 50 and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Shingles can lead to significant disruptions in daily life. Notably, 57.7% of individuals affected by shingles reported losing work time due to a shingles episode, with an average of 9.1 days of work absenteeism per case. Additionally, 66% of individuals affected declared a loss of productivity, underscoring the substantial impact of the disease on both personal and professional life. The economic benefits of vaccination are evident, as seen in the case of shingles vaccination, which is estimated to save CAN$179 million by preventing herpes zoster cases.
By vaccinating against shingles, we can drastically reduce these adverse effects and improve quality of life for those at risk. The guide also discusses the potential long-term health impacts of shingles and the preventive measures available, highlighting how vaccination can mitigate these effects.
Refer to the fact sheet below for more information.
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