Reminder re: publicly funded shingles immunization program
Advisory Alert
October 6, 2016
*Cette information est seulement disponible en anglais.
On September 15, 2016, Ontario launched its publicly funded shingles immunization program for seniors between the ages of 65 and 70. This alert provides answers to some questions you and your patients may have about the program.
Who is eligible for free shingles vaccine?
All seniors who are between the ages of 65 and 70 are eligible to receive one dose of publicly funded shingles vaccine. Until December 31, 2016, seniors born in 1945 (those already 71 or turning 71 in 2016) are also eligible to receive the vaccine free of charge. The vaccine is available for persons regardless of their previous history of varicella or herpes zoster infection.
Where can patients receive free shingles vaccine?
Health care providers may choose to order publicly funded shingles vaccine and provide it free of charge to eligible seniors as part of their clinical practice. Alternatively, eligible seniors can be referred to the Sudbury & District Health Unit to obtain their free shingles vaccine.
What about seniors who do not meet the eligibility requirements for free vaccine?
Seniors who do not meet the eligibility requirements for free vaccine may purchase it. They may be given a prescription for the vaccine and buy it through a pharmacy. They can also obtain the vaccine at cost through the Sudbury & District Health Unit.
How do I order free shingles vaccine for my eligible patients?
Complete and submit the Vaccine Order Form on our website which has been updated to include Publicly Funded Zostavax. This form is now two pages, the first page includes all Publicly Funded vaccine and the second page is specific to high-risk vaccine only. When ordering, please include a copy of the last two weeks of fridge temperature logs.
Should you have any questions about the launch of this new program or the new order form, please contact the Immunization Program as per below.
Thank you and please contact my office should you have any questions or comments.
For all reporting, inquiries or comments, please contact:
Sudbury & District Health Unit at 705.522.9200, ext. 301.
Sincerely,
P. Sutcliffe, MD, MHSc, FRCPC
Medical Officer of Health
This item was last modified on June 4, 2020